What does “Born to the purple” mean?
"Born to the purple" means that someone is born into a royal or noble family.
What context can I use the in?
Example
The princess was born to the purple and lived a life of luxury.
Example
He was born to the purple and inherited the throne at a young age.
Example
The born to the purple prince was known for his extravagant lifestyle
Is “Born to the purple” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Born to the purple” 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 “Born to the purple” effectively in context?
You can use "Born to the Purple" to describe someone who is born into a privileged or aristocratic background. It emphasizes their elevated social status and the privileges they enjoy due to their birth. For example, if you meet someone who comes from a wealthy and influential family, you might say, 'She was born to the purple and has always lived a life of luxury.'
- 1Social Status
The princess was born to the purple and lived a life of luxury.
- 2Inheritance
He was born to the purple and inherited the throne at a young age.
- 3Lifestyle
The born to the purple prince was known for his extravagant lifestyle.
Similar phrases to “Born to the purple”:
Blue blood
Refers to someone of noble or aristocratic birth
Example
He comes from a long line of blue blood.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Born to the purple” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Born to the Purple" can be traced back to the Byzantine Empire. In Byzantium, the color purple was associated with royalty and nobility. The term 'born to the purple' referred to individuals who were born into the imperial family, specifically those who were born in the Porphyra chamber of the Great Palace of Constantinople, which was lined with purple porphyry stone. Being born to the purple meant being born into a royal or noble family.
Is “Born to the purple” common in everyday conversation?
The phrase "Born to the Purple" is not commonly used in everyday conversation. It is more often found in historical or literary contexts when discussing royalty or nobility. However, it can still be understood by English speakers and may be used occasionally to describe someone who comes from a privileged background.
What tone does “Born to the purple” have?
"Born to the Purple" conveys a tone of admiration or envy. It highlights the elevated social status and privileges enjoyed by those who are born into a royal or noble family.
Can “Born to the purple” be used in informal and formal settings?
The phrase "Born to the Purple" is more formal in nature. It is not commonly used in casual conversations but may be used in more formal settings such as academic discussions, historical writing, or when discussing matters of social hierarchy.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
The phrase "Born to the Purple" is typically used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'She was born to the purple and lived a life of luxury.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'He was truly "born to the purple".' to imply someone's privileged background.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- of noble birth
- from a privileged background
- born into wealth and privilege
- comes from an aristocratic family
- born into a royal lineage
Antonyms
- commoner
- born into poverty
- from humble beginnings
- without privilege
- ordinary birth
