What does “As American as Apple Pie” mean?

"As American as Apple Pie" means a phrase used to describe something that is typically American or represents traditional American values.

What context can I use the in?

Example

Baseball is often referred to as as American as apple pie.

Example

The Fourth of July celebration is as American as apple pie.

Example

He loves driving his pickup truck, it's as American as apple pie to him

Is “As American as Apple Pie” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“As American as Apple Pie” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “As American as Apple Pie” effectively in context?

You can use "As American as Apple Pie" to describe something that is typically American or represents traditional American values. It emphasizes the idea of something being deeply rooted in American culture and heritage. For example, if someone is talking about their love for baseball, you might say, 'Baseball is often referred to as "as American as apple pie".'

1Sports
When discussing American football, you can say, 'Super Bowl Sunday is as American as apple pie.'
2Holidays
During the Fourth of July celebration, you can mention that 'Fireworks and barbecues are as American as apple pie.'
3Preferences
If someone loves driving their pickup truck, you can say, 'To him, it's as American as apple pie.'

Similar phrases to “As American as Apple Pie”:

All-American

Representing the best or most typical qualities of American culture

Example

The small town parade had an all-American feel with marching bands and waving flags.

Red, white, and blue

Symbolizing the colors of the American flag and representing American patriotism

Example

The decorations for the Independence Day party were red, white, and blue to create a patriotic atmosphere.

Stars and stripes

Referring to the American flag and symbolizing American patriotism

Example

The athlete wore a uniform with stars and stripes to represent the country in the international competition.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “As American as Apple Pie” come from?

The origin of the phrase "As American as Apple Pie" is unknown. However, apple pie has long been considered a symbol of American culture and tradition. It is often associated with home, family, and the values that are considered quintessentially American.

Is “As American as Apple Pie” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "As American as Apple Pie" is a common expression in everyday conversation. It is frequently used to describe things that are considered emblematic of American culture or values.

What tone does “As American as Apple Pie” have?

"As American as Apple Pie" conveys a tone of pride and nostalgia. It celebrates the traditions and values that are associated with American identity.

Can “As American as Apple Pie” be used in informal and formal settings?

The phrase "As American as Apple Pie" is commonly used in both informal and formal settings. It is a well-known expression that can be used in various contexts, such as casual conversations, presentations, or written articles about American culture.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'Baseball is often referred to as "as American as apple pie".' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'It's "as American as apple pie"!' to express enthusiasm or agreement.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

typically american
representative of american culture
quintessentially american
symbolic of american values