totem

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "totem" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is a noun which refers to a sacred object or symbol that represents a group of people, usually in Native American cultures. Example: The totem pole stood tall and strong, adorned with intricate carvings of animals and spiritual beings that held great significance for the tribe.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Another Scottish scholar, Andrew Lang, early in the 20th century advocated a nominalistic meaning for totemism, namely that local groups, clans, or phratries, in selecting totem names from the realm of nature, were reacting to a need to be differentiated.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"These photographs document ancient customs originating [in] pagan beliefs – voodooesque forms of totem worship," he writes in his afterword.

The Guardian - Arts

These days, when Hull enters the national consciousness, it is usually as a totem of social deprivation.

The Guardian

A £4m striker is a fair replacement to call upon at this level yet the departure of Cardiff's captain and totem swung momentum the opposite way.

The Guardian - Sport

Let's check the record, shall we? "Finally, St . Louiswill probably end the same way they did in 2010: low on the totem pole.

The Guardian - Sport

The frog, she explained, was a family totem.

The Guardian - Film

Almost daily, some totem of the new economy admits to a thoroughly old-fashioned sense of bewilderment.

The Economist

The beam, found in the wreckage of the World Trade Centre, was a totem for rescuers.

The Economist

The government refuses to consider new ways of financing health care in Britain; instead, Mr Brown wants to "renew a shared national consensus" around the NHS.The NHS is a troubling totem for Mr Brown to have chosen.

The Economist

The boomerangs, totem poles and other gifts lavished on the queen during her tours distract only briefly from the 60-year-old electrical system.

The Economist

Also, the records of both Labour and the Liberal Democrats are more gay-friendly on the three totem issues the right to adopt children and join the military, and the repeal of Section 28 of the 1988 Local Government Act than the Conservatives'.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "totem" in writing, consider the cultural context. Ensure that you are using it respectfully and accurately, especially when referring to indigenous cultures. If in doubt, research the specific cultural practices to avoid misrepresentation.

Common error

Avoid using "totem" loosely to describe any symbol or icon. The term has specific cultural roots and should not be applied indiscriminately to avoid cultural appropriation or misinterpretation.

Linguistic Context

The word "totem" functions primarily as a noun, referring to a natural object or animal that is adopted as the emblem of a clan or family. It can also refer to a representation of this object. Ludwig shows examples where "totem" signifies both a literal object and a symbol of identity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "totem", a noun denoting a symbolic representation of a clan or family, sees frequent usage across diverse contexts ranging from news to encyclopedias. Ludwig AI affirms its grammatical correctness. Best practices emphasize respectful and accurate application, especially within indigenous cultural contexts, while common errors involve overgeneralizing its use. Related terms include "symbol", "emblem", and "icon", each carrying subtly different connotations. In essence, "totem" serves to identify and represent cultural heritage and beliefs, highlighting its significance in various communication styles.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

symbol

Represents a more general term for something that stands for or suggests something else.

emblem

Signifies a visual symbol or representation of a quality or concept.

icon

Suggests a widely recognized symbol or representation.

representation

Implies a depiction or portrayal of something.

figure

Can refer to a symbolic or representative person or thing.

idol

Suggests something greatly admired or revered, sometimes religiously.

mascot

Refers to a symbolic figure used for luck or as a representative.

fetish

Implies an object believed to have magical powers or significance.

artifact

Highlights an object of cultural or historical interest.

marker

Signifies something that indicates or identifies a place or thing.

FAQs

How is the word "totem" typically used in a sentence?

The word "totem" is commonly used as a noun to describe a sacred object or symbol representing a group of people or a clan. For example: "The tribe revered the animal "totem", believing it offered them protection and guidance."

What are some words with similar meanings to "totem"?

Words with similar meanings to "totem" include "symbol", "emblem", "icon", or "representation". The best alternative to use depends on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use the term "totem" in a non-cultural context?

While "totem" originates from specific cultural and religious contexts, it can be used metaphorically in broader contexts to represent something important or symbolic. However, it's important to be mindful of the term's origins and use it respectfully.

What is the difference between a "totem" and a "taboo"?

A "totem" is a sacred object or symbol representing a group, while a "taboo" is a prohibition or restriction on certain behaviors or practices, often associated with something considered sacred or dangerous. They are related concepts within a cultural system.