token of affection

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "token of affection" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to something that is given as a sign of affection. For example, "She gave him a small necklace as a token of affection."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

So cake was a glue, and a token of affection.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

In a locket it made a portrait into a token of affection rather than a record of a likeness.

The New York Times - Arts

After dinner, Mr. Big called off all other dates with finalists and dispatched his consultant to buy a Gucci handbag for the woman, as a token of affection.

The New York Times

"It's a small token of affection that the city can show out of respect for James Davis," Mr. Bloomberg said yesterday before the viewing.

The New York Times

You could almost hear her say, about each missing token of affection, "And what happened to that?" After slamming the door in her lover's face, she lingered, as if she might forgive him, after all.

The New York Times - Arts

For scores of New Yorkers who wanted to commemorate Valentine's Day without the usual hearts and flowers, the city's Department of Environmental Protection had just the token of affection.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

Later, he said, "it was remembrances, tokens of affection for people who'd been lost.

The New York Times

Bizarrely, employees are rarely grateful to receive such tokens of affection.

The Guardian - Money

Her repression of all signs and tokens of affection make the spectator gasp at her self-inflicted cruelty.

Stanford University

Indeed, for those whose tokens of affection are in jeopardy, the idea of a ban is less than welcome.

The Guardian - Travel

As players, fans and even the staff of both Juve and Atalanta threw tokens of affection his way, some shed tears.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "token of affection", ensure the context clearly indicates what the token is and who is giving and receiving it. This avoids ambiguity and strengthens the message of care and fondness.

Common error

Avoid assuming that the material value of a "token of affection" directly correlates to the depth of the affection. A small, thoughtful gesture can often be more meaningful than an expensive gift.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "token of affection" primarily functions as a noun phrase. As seen in Ludwig, it identifies something—an object, gesture, or action—that symbolizes or represents a feeling of love, fondness, or care.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

12%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Science

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "token of affection" is a commonly used phrase denoting an object, gesture, or act symbolizing love or fondness. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread use across various contexts, notably in News & Media. While grammatically sound and widely understood, it's important to consider the context when using this phrase, ensuring the "token" and the sentiment are clear. Related phrases like ""gesture of love"" or "sign of endearment" can offer alternative ways to express similar sentiments. Remember that the true value lies not in the monetary worth of the "token" but in the genuine affection it represents.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

gesture of love

Focuses on the action or movement that conveys affection, rather than the object itself.

sign of endearment

Highlights the loving feeling that the gesture or item represents.

expression of fondness

Emphasizes the emotion of liking and caring that is being communicated.

symbol of love

Highlights that the object acts as a representation of love.

gift of love

Highlights the object given with love. It focuses on the act of giving.

keepsake of affection

Implies a more lasting and cherished item representing affection.

memento of love

Similar to 'keepsake', suggesting a reminder of love.

sweet remembrance

Highlights the positive and pleasant memory associated with the affection.

loving tribute

Implies a more formal or significant expression of affection.

affectionate gesture

Shifts the emphasis to the action being performed to show affection.

FAQs

How can I use "token of affection" in a sentence?

You can use "token of affection" to describe a gift or gesture that symbolizes love or fondness. For instance, "She gave him a handmade card as a "token of affection"".

What's a less formal way to say "token of affection"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "sweet gesture", "little something", or "sign of endearment" as less formal alternatives to ""token of affection"".

What are some examples of items that could be considered a "token of affection"?

Examples include handmade gifts, flowers, cards, a thoughtful note, or even a simple act of service. The key is that it represents care and fondness. It could be a "gesture of love".

How does the meaning of "token of affection" differ from "bribe"?

A ""token of affection"" is given freely out of love or fondness, with no expectation of something in return. A "bribe", on the other hand, is given with the explicit intention of influencing someone's behavior or decisions, often unethically.