urban legends

USAGE SUMMARY

"urban legends" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
Example sentence: Many people believe in urban legends, despite the fact that they are often false.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Sehgal's pieces are like urban legends.

The New Yorker

The wildest urban legends are readily believed.

The New York Times

New York City teems with questionable urban legends.

The New York Times - Arts

Please leave your comments and your own urban legends below.

Independent

But as urban legends go it remains a powerful one.

The New York Times

"These are urban legends that won't die," Dr. Diller said.

The New York Times - Health

It hadn't: this was teenagers spinning their own urban legends.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Then the specialists in urban legends went to work.

The New York Times

Urban legends notwithstanding, the benefits are real enough.

The New Yorker

There are lots of urban legends about bad names.

The New York Times

Ghost-less ghost stories, urban legends are modern day fairytales.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing "urban legends", provide context about their cultural significance and potential origins to engage your audience effectively.

Common error

Avoid presenting "urban legends" as factual information without proper verification. Always emphasize their fictional or unproven nature to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "urban legends" functions primarily as a noun phrase, referring to a collection of modern, often sensational, stories that are widely circulated and believed to be true, as Ludwig AI explains. Examples include tales of crime, technology gone wrong, or the supernatural.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

10%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "urban legends" are contemporary stories often mistaken as true, widely spread through various media channels. Ludwig AI confirms this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used. The analysis shows that it functions as a noun phrase, serves to describe and categorize these types of stories, and is generally neutral in register, leaning toward informal. While "urban legends" are frequently discussed in news and media, it's crucial to avoid presenting them as verified facts. Understanding their cultural significance and origins enhances discussions, while avoiding misinformation is key to maintaining credibility. Alternatives include "modern myths" and "contemporary folklore", each adding a slightly different emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

modern myths

Focuses on the contemporary nature of the stories.

contemporary folklore

Emphasizes the cultural aspect and transmission of the stories.

apocryphal stories

Highlights the questionable authenticity of the narratives.

popular misconceptions

Stresses the inaccurate or unfounded nature of the beliefs.

widespread rumors

Focuses on the propagation and lack of verification of the stories.

folkloric narratives

Highlights the traditional aspect of oral storytelling.

local legends

Highlights the specific regional origin.

cautionary tales

Highlights the purpose as a warning to avoid danger or bad habits.

tall tales

Focuses on the exaggeration and unbelievability of the stories.

old wives' tales

Highlights the traditional and often superstitious nature of the stories.

FAQs

How are "urban legends" different from myths?

"Urban legends" are modern stories often presented as true, while myths are traditional narratives that explain cultural beliefs or natural phenomena.

What are some common themes in "urban legends"?

Common themes include crime, technology, the supernatural, and dangers lurking in familiar environments.

How do "urban legends" spread so quickly?

"Urban legends" spread through word of mouth, email, social media, and other forms of communication, often exploiting people's fears and anxieties.

What is the purpose of studying "urban legends"?

Studying "urban legends" can provide insights into cultural anxieties, social values, and the way information is disseminated and believed within a society.