the establishment

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "establishment" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it as a noun to refer to the people or organizations that have the power to decide what is considered socially acceptable. For example, "The establishment has traditionally been unwilling to accept dramatic social changes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We need "the Establishment".

The New York Times

Both flay the establishment.

The New York Times

They anger the establishment.

The New York Times

I hate the establishment.

The New Yorker

"She's the establishment".

The New York Times

"They nominated the establishment candidate".

The New York Times

I am the establishment now.

The New York Times

But the establishment always wins.

The New York Times

Really shaking up the establishment".

Independent

The establishment had been split.

Independent

The establishment has been rattled.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the establishment" when referring to a consolidated group wielding significant power, especially in political or social contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "the establishment" loosely to describe any group in authority; reserve it for entrenched systems resistant to change.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the establishment" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It denotes a dominant group or system holding power and influence, often in a political or social context. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Wiki

7%

Science

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Academia

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the establishment" is a noun phrase referring to the dominant power structure within a society, frequently appearing in news and media contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in English. While grammatically straightforward, its effective use relies on understanding its connotations of entrenched power and resistance to change. Related phrases include "the ruling class" and "the status quo", each offering subtly different perspectives on power dynamics. When using this phrase, it's best to use it when referring to a consolidated group wielding significant power and avoid overgeneralization. The sources are generally authoritative, with the most frequent being The New York Times, Independent and The New Yorker.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

The ruling class

Focuses specifically on the social class that holds power and influence.

The power structure

Emphasizes the hierarchical arrangement of power within a system.

The status quo

Highlights the existing state of affairs, especially when it's resistant to change.

The old guard

Suggests a group of established, often conservative, individuals.

The governing body

Refers to the organization responsible for making and enforcing rules.

The powers that be

An idiomatic expression for those in control.

The system

A general term for the established way of doing things.

The authorities

Focuses on those with the official power to make decisions.

The bureaucracy

Highlights the administrative system and its officials.

The establishment figures

Highlights specific individuals within the dominant power structure.

FAQs

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

You can use "the establishment" to refer to the ruling class or authority group in a society, as in "It's often necessary to question "the establishment" to get things done."

What's a good substitute for "the establishment"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "the establishment" include "the ruling class", "the governing body", or "the powers that be".

Is it appropriate to use "the establishment" in formal writing?

Yes, "the establishment" is suitable for formal writing, particularly when discussing political or social structures. However, consider your audience and the specific nuance you wish to convey when choosing between "the establishment" and alternatives.

What does it mean to 'challenge the establishment'?

To 'challenge the establishment' means to question or resist the authority, norms, or practices of those in power. This can involve advocating for change, protesting against injustice, or promoting alternative ideas and perspectives.