toxic masculinity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "toxic masculinity" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in discussions about gender roles, societal expectations, and the negative aspects of traditional masculinity. Example: "The film explores the theme of toxic masculinity and its impact on relationships and mental health."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We're consumed with the concept of human toxicity in today's society: toxic relationships, toxic friendships, toxic masculinity, toxic bosses, toxic colleagues, toxic energy.

The Guardian - Opinion

"We have a toxic masculinity!" The issue of "toxic masculinity" hounded Fonda for decades.

The New Yorker

This provoked a defense of toxic masculinity.

The New Yorker

Toxic masculinity, fragile masculinity, doomed masculinity, you name it.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

We have a toxic masculinity and that's what needs to be addressed".

The Guardian - Film

We need to rewrite the messages of toxic masculinity and violence that boys and men receive.

The New Yorker

A history of violence and dispossession has bred a toxic masculinity at both ends of the political spectrum.

The Guardian

This year's sequel, Bad Neighbors 2: Sorority Rising, goes even further to subvert the toxic masculinity of the genre.

The Guardian - Film

On cue, a man wearing a poncho and a sign that said "Criminalize Toxic Masculinity" breezed by us, smoking weed.

The New Yorker

Speaking of Isla Vista, in the wake of that tragedy there's been a lot of talk about masculinity and toxic masculinity.

The Guardian - Opinion

He now runs a blog called Dr Nerdlove, where he tries to provide a counterpoint to what he calls the "toxic masculinity" of such communities.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience and context when using the term "toxic masculinity", as it can be a sensitive and potentially divisive topic.

Common error

Be careful not to equate all expressions of masculinity with "toxic masculinity". Focus on specific harmful behaviors and attitudes rather than making sweeping statements about men in general.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "toxic masculinity" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies a specific subset of masculine behaviors and beliefs deemed harmful. According to Ludwig AI, it is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"Toxic masculinity" is a commonly used noun phrase that identifies harmful behaviors and attitudes associated with traditional masculine norms. According to Ludwig AI, the term is considered correct and usable in written English. While the phrase is most frequently encountered in news and media contexts, it's essential to use it with precision, providing specific examples to avoid broad generalizations. Alternatives like "harmful masculinity" or "problematic masculinity" may be more appropriate depending on the specific nuance you intend to convey. It is not inherently anti-male, but aims to foster healthy discussion of societal gender roles.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

masculine toxicity

Inverts the original term while retaining a similar meaning.

unhealthy masculinity

Highlights the detrimental impact of certain masculine behaviors on men’s well-being.

problematic masculinity

Focuses on the issues and challenges associated with traditional masculine norms, without necessarily framing them as inherently harmful.

harmful masculinity

Emphasizes the damaging effects of certain masculine traits and behaviors on both men and those around them.

destructive masculinity

Highlights the damaging consequences of specific expressions of masculinity.

hypermasculinity

Refers to an exaggerated adherence to stereotypical masculine behaviors, often associated with aggression and dominance.

hegemonic masculinity

Describes the dominant form of masculinity that reinforces power structures and social hierarchies.

traditional masculinity ideology

Focuses on the belief systems and values that uphold conventional masculine norms.

fragile masculinity

Refers to the anxiety and defensiveness men experience when their masculinity is perceived as threatened.

male gender role conflict

Addresses the psychological distress experienced when men feel pressured to conform to rigid masculine stereotypes.

FAQs

How can I use "toxic masculinity" in a sentence?

You can use "toxic masculinity" to describe harmful behaviors and attitudes traditionally associated with men. For example: "The film explores the consequences of "toxic masculinity" on interpersonal relationships".

What's the difference between "toxic masculinity" and "hegemonic masculinity"?

"Toxic masculinity" refers to specific harmful behaviors and attitudes, while "hegemonic masculinity" describes the dominant form of masculinity that reinforces societal power structures.

What are some alternatives to the phrase "toxic masculinity"?

Alternatives include "harmful masculinity", "problematic masculinity", or "destructive masculinity". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Is the concept of "toxic masculinity" anti-male?

The concept of "toxic masculinity" is not inherently anti-male. It critiques specific harmful behaviors and attitudes associated with traditional masculine norms, not masculinity itself. It aims to promote healthier expressions of masculinity.