trappings

USAGE SUMMARY

'trappings' is a correct and usable word in written English.
It can be used to describe any ornamental or luxurious items associated with a particular activity, person, or thing, especially those that are associated with wealth or power. For example: "The trappings of success were on full display at the party."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Eschewing the grandeur and trappings of his predecessors, he arrives for meetings with heads of state in a blue Ford Focus; he wears old shoes; he astonishes members of the global public who have written to him by picking up the phone and calling them himself.

The Guardian

Because what it means to me is: 'You, Mindy Kaling, have all the trappings of a marginalised person.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

For all its bourgeois trappings, Lyon was then, and is now, a pretty violent place – far nastier, in my experience, than Marseille.

The Guardian

With three separate working sessions, two photo-calls and a press conference by Obama scheduled at Camp David, there will be plenty of opportunity to display the trappings of friendship.

The Guardian

Yet in between the traditional trappings of a jamboree, Kazimierz Piechowski, or Kazik as he likes to be called, will tell them a story few in the UK have heard – how, during Nazi occupation, scouts their age were murdered in the streets, while others like him were sent to concentration camps to witness the horror of Hitler's Final Solution.

The Guardian

Her visit, which has many of the trappings of a state visit rarely offered to a head of government, contrasts with the low key reception for the French president, François Hollande, at the Anglo-French summit last month at RAF Brize Norton.

The Guardian

Perhaps it was a bold, metaphorical design statement - a woman, uncertain of her role as wife, madonna and whore, expressing her sexuality by hurling the trappings of her repressed womanhood across the void into the 21st century.

The Guardian

But hidden beneath the trappings of apparent prosperity are familiar signs of trouble: declining enrollment, rising tuition, debt and an endowment that is largely restricted.

The Guardian

His bank balance was only part of his wealth: he also owned several villas around Italy with prosperous estates and vineyards attached, as well as the usual trappings of the elite, such as 500 citrus-wood tables with ivory legs, all alike – perfect for lavish dinner parties at which he could entertain 1,000 of his closest friends.

The Guardian - Books

As the lead Django, Foxx explained that Tarantino was concerned that the trappings of Foxx's life might have made it tough for him to get into the mindset of a slave.

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

With its sun-tanned, besuited officials, in fact, the event had all the trappings of an international dentists' convention.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "trappings" to critically examine outward appearances that may conceal underlying realities or complexities.

Common error

Avoid assuming that the "trappings" of something (like wealth or success) are equivalent to its true essence or value. Focus on substance over superficial indicators.

Linguistic Context

The word "trappings" primarily functions as a noun, often in the plural form. It refers to the outward signs, features, or accessories associated with a particular rank, position, or situation. Ludwig’s examples showcase its use in describing elements that accompany something, often indicating status or appearance.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "trappings" is a versatile noun primarily used to describe the outward signs, features, or accessories associated with a particular rank, position, or situation. As demonstrated by Ludwig, it often carries a connotation of superficiality or a contrast between appearance and reality. It is grammatically correct and finds frequent use in News & Media as well as Formal & Business contexts, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. When using "trappings", it's essential to consider whether you want to emphasize external features or critique a disconnect between appearance and substance. Related phrases like "accoutrements" or "paraphernalia" can offer nuanced alternatives, depending on the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

accoutrements

Replaces "trappings" with a term emphasizing associated items or equipment, often implying a specific role or activity.

paraphernalia

Substitutes "trappings" with a word highlighting items used in a particular activity, often with a connotation of complexity or excess.

adornments

Substitutes "trappings" with a word that suggests decorative additions intended to enhance appearance.

accessories

Replaces "trappings" focusing on items that enhance or complement something else, often in a decorative or functional way.

embellishments

Replaces "trappings" highlighting features added to make something more attractive or elaborate.

ornaments

Substitutes "trappings" with a term emphasizing decorative items or embellishments.

hallmarks

Substitutes "trappings" with a term emphasizing distinctive features or characteristics.

appendages

Replaces "trappings" focusing on items added or attached, often suggesting a non-essential or supplementary nature.

emblems

Substitutes "trappings" with a term highlighting symbolic representations or markers of identity or status.

insignia

Replaces "trappings" focusing on badges or marks of authority, rank, or membership.

FAQs

How can I use "trappings" in a sentence?

You can use "trappings" to describe the outward signs or accessories associated with a particular role, status, or activity. For example, "He enjoyed the "trappings of power", but not the responsibility".

What are some synonyms for "trappings"?

Alternatives to "trappings" include "accoutrements", "paraphernalia", or "accessories", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to use "trappings" in a formal context?

Yes, "trappings" is appropriate for formal contexts. It is often used in news articles, academic papers, and business reports to describe outward appearances or associated items.

What is the difference between "trappings" and "symbols"?

"Trappings" refers to the items or accessories associated with something, while "symbols" are representations or signs that stand for something else. Trappings can act as symbols, but not always.