taboo

USAGE SUMMARY

'taboo' is a correct and usable word in written English.
You can use it to describe something considered unacceptable or forbidden in a given culture. Example sentence: In many cultures, talking about politics at the dinner table is a taboo subject.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"No one knows, but I do think it's safe to say that it's likely that it's been a part of many wars throughout history and that taboo has played a part in the silence".

The Guardian

If economics is now skipped over quickly and the health service is an outright taboo, the old Cameron confidence still shines through on the two subjects he focused on.

The Guardian - Opinion

Until today such an option was a taboo subject among US government officials and their British counterparts, who have insisted Iran would be ultimately stopped from constructing a warhead.

The Guardian

The sad thing is that he really could have been the man to destigmatise the taboo of alcoholism.

The Guardian

NGOs could play a key role in getting communities to discuss the taboo subject and educating them on the potential of poo power.

The Guardian

I've come to Kampala to hear the stories of the few brave men who have agreed to speak to me: a rare opportunity to find out about a controversial and deeply taboo issue.

The Guardian

Beyond the "dirty junkie" cliches and the fear of disease, one of the reasons why heroin is still taboo is that it wipes away the sense of responsibility to the collective, to the herd.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

For an issue that's supposedly too taboo to be discussed, immigration has taken some scalps this campaign.

The Guardian - Opinion

At some companies, conversations about pay aren't taboo – they're becoming redundant.

The Guardian

Sources familiar with the case suggest the Kremlin may have decided to punish the Economist for its consistently critical reporting on Russia, especially on taboo themes that irritate the Moscow administration, such as the country's security services.

The Guardian

But to me, the rare opportunity to lift a taboo on discussion of state surveillance before an audience that primarily views state media outweighed that risk".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "taboo" to highlight subjects that are actively avoided due to deep-seated cultural or social reasons. Avoid using it loosely for mere preferences or dislikes.

Common error

Avoid labeling every controversial or sensitive topic as "taboo". True taboos involve deeply ingrained cultural or social prohibitions, not just matters of opinion or preference.

Linguistic Context

The word "taboo" functions primarily as a noun or adjective, denoting something that is forbidden or restricted due to social or cultural norms. According to Ludwig AI, it is considered correct and widely usable. Examples include "a taboo subject" or "taboo themes".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "taboo" is a versatile term functioning as both a noun and adjective to describe something forbidden or avoided due to cultural or social norms. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability across various contexts. As evidenced by numerous examples, "taboo" frequently appears in news and media, as well as formal and business settings. While it maintains a neutral register, understanding the specific cultural or social context is crucial for its appropriate application. Related phrases include "forbidden topic" and "prohibited subject".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

forbidden topic

Focuses specifically on topics that are not allowed to be discussed.

prohibited subject

Highlights the act of actively preventing discussion or engagement with a topic.

culturally sensitive issue

Emphasizes the need for caution and respect when addressing a particular topic due to its cultural significance.

off-limits subject

Indicates that a subject is not permitted or appropriate for discussion.

unspeakable act

Focuses on the severity and gravity of an action, making it difficult to discuss.

socially unacceptable behavior

Highlights that the action or behavior goes against social norms and standards.

out of bounds

Suggests that a topic or area is restricted and not to be entered or discussed.

verboten subject

Emphasizes that a subject is strictly forbidden, often with a strong cultural or legal connotation.

unmentionable matter

Focuses on the reluctance or inability to mention something due to its sensitivity or inappropriateness.

area of discomfort

Highlights the emotional or psychological unease associated with a specific topic or situation.

FAQs

How can I use "taboo" in a sentence?

You can use "taboo" to describe a subject or action that is forbidden or avoided due to social or cultural beliefs. For example, "Incest is a "taboo" subject in many societies".

What are some synonyms for "taboo"?

Alternatives to "taboo" include "forbidden topic", "prohibited subject", or "culturally sensitive issue" depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "taboo" in formal writing?

Yes, "taboo" is appropriate for formal writing when discussing subjects or behaviors that are strictly prohibited due to cultural or social norms. Ensure the context clarifies the specific nature of the "taboo".

What's the difference between "taboo" and "controversial"?

"Taboo" refers to something that is strictly forbidden or avoided, often due to deep-seated cultural or social reasons. "Controversial", on the other hand, describes something that causes disagreement or debate. A "taboo" subject may also be controversial, but not all controversial subjects are necessarily taboos.