stereotype

USAGE SUMMARY

'stereotype' is a correct and usable word in written English.
It is used to describe an oversimplified and often unfavorable image or idea of a particular type of person or thing. For example, "There is a stereotype that all Asians are good at math."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But current events will inevitably exacerbate the already established stereotype of the majority of young individuals as "thugs" and "gangsters", especially within the black community.

The Guardian - Opinion

Toon fans, contrary to the tired old stereotype, don't ask for much as paying customers, but they would like a manager they respect, and can relate to.

The Guardian - Sport

I'm a Scot remember," he said, "and I like to play into the stereotype!" I heard him speak when I, like him, was a young SDP supporter at university, and he certainly was not stereotypical in any way.

The Guardian

It summed up every negative stereotype about hardcore gamers, as Cartman and his friends became fat, greasy-haired, acne-ridden slobs as they go through the endless hours of practice necessary to defeat an awesomely powerful player who was ruining the game for everyone.

The Guardian - Opinion

She is polite, softly spoken, smiley, elegant, proper – the perfect counter to the crusty green stereotype.

The Guardian

Benolas Tippet, a master's student at LSE, says: "It's the stereotype that young people are apathetic.

The Guardian

"The overbearing dominant abusive stereotype as the archetype of the alpha male is something that many cultures have been trying to break away from," he says.

The Guardian

There's an inaccurate stereotype that these guys love war and they don't – they love the fight for what they would say is justice or each other".

The Guardian - Film

When under stress they did not go to pieces… In short, they managed to defy the widespread stereotype of the problematic, difficult adolescent, at least in the eyes and reports of their parents and teachers".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

For most of history, and despite the stereotype of urban squalour, it has been the countryside where poverty has particularly thrived.

The Guardian

These dances have black origins and are regularly described in terms used to stereotype black women: they are overly sexual, animalistic, uncivilised.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about social issues, avoid perpetuating harmful stereotypes by presenting nuanced perspectives and diverse examples.

Common error

Be mindful of reinforcing existing stereotypes through language. Subtly biased phrasing can inadvertently perpetuate harmful preconceptions.

Linguistic Context

The word "stereotype" primarily functions as a noun, referring to a widely held but fixed and oversimplified image or idea of a particular type of person or thing. According to Ludwig, it follows standard grammar rules. It can also function as a verb, meaning to categorize someone or something based on such an image.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "stereotype" is a commonly used noun that describes a widely held, oversimplified idea about a particular group or type of person. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent appearance in reputable sources, particularly in News & Media. It's important to use the term judiciously, being mindful of the potential for reinforcing harmful biases. When writing, consider using related phrases such as "preconceived notion" or "oversimplification" to add nuance and precision. Remember, as the examples from Ludwig illustrate, critical awareness of stereotypes is crucial for effective communication and promoting inclusivity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

preconceived notion

Emphasizes the idea of a prior belief or assumption, often without sufficient evidence.

oversimplified generalization

Highlights the reduction of complexity and individual differences into a single, broad statement.

fixed mindset

Focuses on the rigidity and resistance to change associated with stereotypical thinking.

common misconception

Underscores the inaccuracy and widespread acceptance of the false belief.

conventional wisdom

Suggests that the idea is widely accepted and rarely questioned, even if it's inaccurate.

cookie-cutter image

Implies that individuals or groups are being forced into a uniform and predictable pattern.

stock character

Refers to a character in fiction based on common literary or cultural stereotypes.

established image

Focuses on the long-standing and ingrained nature of the perceived likeness.

categorical thinking

Highlights the cognitive process of placing individuals into rigid categories based on limited information.

prejudgment

Emphasizes the act of forming an opinion or making a decision before having all the relevant facts.

FAQs

How can I use "stereotype" in a sentence?

You can use "stereotype" to describe a widely held but oversimplified idea of a particular type of person or thing. For instance, "The "stereotype of" a gamer as someone who is socially awkward isn't always true".

What can I say instead of "stereotype"?

You can use alternatives like "preconceived notion", "oversimplification", or "generalization", depending on the context.

Which is correct, "stereotype" or "cliche"?

"Stereotype" refers to a generalized belief about a particular group, while "cliche" refers to an overused phrase or idea. They are not interchangeable.

What's the difference between "stereotype" and "prejudice"?

"Stereotype" is a belief about a group, while "prejudice" is a pre-judgment or attitude, often negative, about a group and its members. Prejudice involves feeling, stereotype involves thinking.