the coffer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the coffer" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a strongbox or chest for storing valuables, often in a historical or literary context. Example: "The treasure was hidden deep within the coffer, protected from prying eyes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

("As soon as the coin in the coffer rings, the soul from purgatory springs", ran a preacher's advertising jingle).

The Guardian - Books

Fortunately Saudi Arabia is rich in crude oil, they can pump out as much as they like and make the coffer of the royal family full.

The Economist

He was to bring the coffer carrying the Queen's diamonds and to alert the horse relays of the approach of the fugitives".

The New Yorker

There was a time not so long ago when Mr. Marçalo could afford to close his restaurant, the Coffer, one day each week, he said; when he could afford a staff of 12, not 8; and when the daily take was around $2,000, not $1,000 to $1,200 or so.

The New York Times

In an interim report to the president on Thursday, Mr. Salazar suggested the creation of a kind of parallel technological universe in which government would have the robots, the coffer dams and the other tools necessary to help control a big blowout.

The New York Times

This crude commercialisation of the doctrine of indulgences, encapsulated in Tetzel's slogan—"As soon as the coin in the coffer rings, so the soul from purgatory springs"—was, to Luther, "the pious defrauding of the faithful" and a glaring symptom of the need for broad reform.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

"Now the coffers are empty.

Independent

The coffers are empty.

The Guardian - Opinion

They are also the people who fill the coffers.

The Economist

"We had precious little in the coffers," Mr. Plepler said.

The New York Times

But such strategies won't fill the coffers.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the coffer", consider the historical context of the word; it often evokes images of royalty, treasure, or historical institutions. Use it to add a sense of gravitas or tradition to your writing.

Common error

Don't use "the coffer" as a generic term for any container; it specifically implies a strong, secure box for valuables or a part of a ceiling structure. Using "box", "container", or "fund" may be more appropriate in modern contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the coffer" functions primarily as a noun phrase, typically acting as a subject or object within a sentence. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct. Examples show it referring to literal treasure chests or metaphorical stores of wealth.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the coffer" is a grammatically sound noun phrase that refers to a strongbox or a store of valuables, as well as an ornamental panel in architecture. While not frequently used in modern English, it often appears in news media and historical contexts, imparting a sense of tradition or financial significance. Ludwig's AI confirms its grammatical correctness, while the usage examples highlight its versatile application in both literal and figurative senses. Consider using "the strongbox" or "the treasury" as alternatives depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the strongbox

A more literal synonym, emphasizing the strength and security of the container.

the state coffers

Specifically refers to the financial resources of a state or government.

the treasury

Refers more broadly to a governmental or organizational fund, rather than a physical box.

the vault

Implies a secure room or chamber, not necessarily a portable container.

the safe

Suggests a fireproof or burglar-proof container, often built into a wall or floor.

the chest

A general term for a large box, which may or may not be secure.

the money box

Specifically refers to a container for money, not necessarily other valuables.

the war chest

Specifically refers to funds used for a political campaign or other competitive endeavor.

the public purse

Specifically refers to public funds, often managed by a government.

the repository

A place or container where something is stored, often in a more abstract sense.

FAQs

How can I use "the coffer" in a sentence?

You can use "the coffer" to refer to a strongbox containing valuables, as in "The pirate's treasure was hidden in "the coffer"". It can also refer to a sunken panel in a ceiling.

What's a suitable synonym for "the coffer" when referring to funds?

When referring to funds, alternatives to "the coffer" include "the treasury", "the public purse", or "the state coffers".

Is "the coffer" a common expression in modern English?

While grammatically correct, "the coffer" is not a particularly common expression in modern English. Terms like "the safe" or "the vault" are more frequently used for secure storage.

How does "the coffer" differ from "the strongbox"?

"The coffer" and "the strongbox" are quite similar, both denoting a secure container. "The coffer", however, can also refer to an architectural feature (a sunken panel), whereas "the strongbox" is exclusively a physical container.