trappings of life

USAGE SUMMARY

"trappings of life" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to the comforts, luxuries, or possessions associated with having a particular lifestyle. For example, "Though he was laid off, John was grateful to have the trappings of life he had acquired over the years."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

In the commune-esque home of the Italian designer and his wife, the artist Francis Upritchard, the colorful trappings of life and work are uniquely integrated.

The New York Times

She wants more and more of the material trappings of life and seems to have lost the ability to relax and be thankful for what we have, which, materially, is everything I ever wanted.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The paper offerings included items such as houses, horses, and money and were meant to ensure that the soul of the deceased would have a "pleasant stay" in the Underworld realm and enjoy the same trappings of life there that the living enjoyed in the Earthly realm.

Columbia University

The quest for resources to supply us all with materials and the trappings of life has depleted the forests, polluted rivers and soils and even carved the tops of mountains.

BBC

Modern Chiang Mai has grown beyond the ancient walls and offers mega-malls, huge multi-national grocery and department stores, and all other trappings of life in the 21st century.

Forbes

One of my biggest regrets is that I let an earthly job and the trappings of life prevent me from attending her funeral.

HuffPost

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

These trappings of urban life were perhaps built in the hope that they would draw in residents, thereby giving life to the new city.

The Guardian

Many transsexual autobiographies – especially Jan Morris's Conundrum, still Britain's best known – frame cross-gender living as a battle between self-realisation and the trappings of bourgeois life.

The Guardian - Opinion

Qadhi is hardly disenchanted by the trappings of Western life.

The New York Times - Magazine

Even after moving to Florida, Hafiz acquired few of the trappings of American life.

The New Yorker

The usual trappings of family life followed — a daughter, a home, furniture, toys.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "trappings of life", consider the specific nuance you wish to convey. It can imply superficiality or genuine comfort depending on the context. If the goal is to imply superficiality, it's best to emphasize the accumulation of items over genuine experiences. Conversely, if you want to show comfort, associate the phrase with things that enhance well-being.

Common error

Be cautious of using "trappings of life" in contexts where it implies an excessive focus on material possessions. Ensure the surrounding text provides balance by highlighting non-material aspects such as relationships, experiences, or personal growth, to avoid giving the impression that life's value is solely tied to belongings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "trappings of life" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the object of a verb or the complement of a preposition. It refers to the accoutrements and material possessions associated with a particular lifestyle. Ludwig AI validates this common usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

20%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "trappings of life" refers to the material possessions and comforts associated with a certain lifestyle. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in writing. While the phrase sees frequent use in contexts like News & Media and Academia, it carries a neutral tone. To use the phrase effectively, be aware that it might imply materialism if not balanced with other elements like experiences and values. Related phrases such as "material possessions", "worldly goods" and "creature comforts" can be used as alternatives, depending on the specific context and desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

material possessions

Focuses specifically on tangible items acquired during life.

worldly goods

Emphasizes possessions and wealth from a more philosophical viewpoint.

creature comforts

Highlights items that provide physical ease and relaxation.

accoutrements of existence

Uses a more formal tone to refer to the items associated with living.

paraphernalia of daily living

Refers to the objects and equipment needed for everyday activities.

lifestyle accessories

Focuses on items which are not strictly necessary but are desirable within a particular lifestyle.

outward signs of success

Highlights possessions that indicate prosperity and achievement.

symbols of affluence

Focuses on possessions which represent wealth and high social status.

modern conveniences

Highlights items that provide ease and save time in contemporary life.

the finer things

Emphasizes luxury and high-quality items.

FAQs

How can I use "trappings of life" in a sentence?

You can use "trappings of life" to describe the material possessions or comforts associated with a particular lifestyle, for instance, "He enjoyed the "trappings of life" afforded by his successful career".

What are some alternatives to "trappings of life"?

Alternatives include "material possessions", "worldly goods", or "creature comforts", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to focus on "trappings of life" or experiences?

Whether to focus on "trappings of life" or experiences depends on individual values and priorities. Some may prioritize material comforts, while others value experiences and personal growth more. There's no universally "better" choice.

How does the meaning of "trappings of life" differ from "necessities of life"?

"Trappings of life" refers to non-essential comforts and possessions, whereas "necessities of life" refers to basic requirements like food, shelter, and clothing. One is about luxuries, while the other is about survival.