token gesture

USAGE SUMMARY

"token gesture" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a gesture or action that is meant to show goodwill but is lacking in substance or sincerity. For example, "He offered me his condolences with a token gesture, but I could tell he wasn't really sorry for my loss."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It was just another token gesture".

The New York Times - Sports

"It's just a token gesture," he says.

The Guardian

Nor would this be a mere token gesture of conciliation.

The Guardian - Opinion

Let's hope this is not just token gesture.

The Guardian - Opinion

Of course, it's a politically correct token gesture.

The Guardian - Opinion

Some admit they do the exam almost as a token gesture, only because patients expect it.

The New York Times - Health

The boot is bigger than before, too, having grown from token gesture to viable suitcase repository.

Independent

But, buried under the stairs without a sign, it is barely even a token gesture.

The Guardian

But the story is not Sissi's "token gesture," as Amnesty International called it.

The Washington Post

The final lesson is that protest votes are not, in fact, a token gesture.

The Guardian - Opinion

And Mitchell and Cameron have a fully realised relationship, not a token gesture towards diversity.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "token gesture" when you want to express skepticism or criticism about an action that appears to be well-intentioned but lacks real substance or commitment.

Common error

Avoid using "token gesture" to describe actions that are genuinely well-intentioned, even if they have limited impact. The phrase carries a strong implication of insincerity or superficiality.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "token gesture" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often used as an object or complement to describe an action that is perceived as superficial or insincere. As Ludwig AI explains, the phrase suggests that an act is done more for appearances than for genuine impact.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

83%

Formal & Business

7%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "token gesture" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe actions that are perceived as superficial or insincere. According to Ludwig AI, it effectively conveys criticism or skepticism, particularly in news and media contexts. While generally neutral in register, it is more frequently found in formal writing and analytical pieces. When using the phrase, ensure you are accurately portraying the intent behind the action as insincere, and consider alternatives like "superficial act" or "hollow offering" to refine your meaning. Be aware of its implications of insincerity to avoid misrepresenting genuinely well-intentioned efforts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

insincere action

Highlights the lack of genuineness in the behavior.

symbolic gesture

Focuses on the use of the action as a representation without substantial impact.

superficial act

Focuses on the lack of depth or genuine intent behind the action.

hollow offering

Emphasizes the emptiness and lack of real value in the gesture.

cosmetic change

Indicates that the alteration is only superficial and doesn't address fundamental issues.

half-hearted attempt

Emphasizes the lack of enthusiasm and commitment in the effort.

perfunctory measure

Stresses that the action is carried out with minimal effort and is routine.

meaningless concession

Suggests the concession provides little practical benefit or compromise.

window dressing

Implies an attempt to create a favorable impression that doesn't reflect reality.

empty promise

Highlights the deceitful intent to not fulfill the promise.

FAQs

How can I use "token gesture" in a sentence?

You can use "token gesture" to describe an action or policy that appears to be significant but is actually a superficial effort. For example, "The company's donation was seen as a "token gesture" to improve its public image after the scandal."

What are some alternatives to "token gesture"?

Alternatives to "token gesture" include "superficial act", "hollow offering", or "insincere action", which all convey a similar sense of insincerity or lack of substance.

Is it appropriate to use "token gesture" in formal writing?

Yes, "token gesture" is suitable for formal writing, particularly when analyzing or critiquing policies, actions, or statements. It clearly communicates a lack of genuine commitment or impact.

What is the difference between "token gesture" and "symbolic gesture"?

While both involve a representation, a "token gesture" implies insincerity or inadequacy, while a "symbolic gesture" may simply represent a larger idea or feeling without necessarily being insincere. The key difference lies in the motivation and perceived impact.