Definition

Noun: 1. The fashionable elite; high society: This term refers to the group of people considered the most stylish, sophisticated, and socially prominent in a given time and place. It implies a set of people who set the standards for elegance, manners, and taste.

Usage

The term "bon ton" is used to describe the collective group of fashionable and socially elite people, rather than an individual. It often carries connotations of exclusivity, refined manners, and adherence to the latest social conventions. * It is typically used in a formal or somewhat historical context. * It functions as a singular noun when referring to the group as a collective entity.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The exclusive party was attended only by members of the bon ton.
  • Her impeccable manners and style marked her as part of the city's bon ton.
  • The magazine catered exclusively to the tastes of the bon ton.

Advanced Usage

• "To be the bon ton": This phrase is not standard. The term "bon ton" itself is the subject or object, describing the group.
• The concept is often associated with knowing and following the correct or proper social behavior, which is implied by the French origin of the phrase ("good tone" or "good style").

Variants and Related Words

• Haute couture (n): High-end, fashionable clothing, often associated with the "bon ton."
• Beau monde (n): A direct synonym, also from French, meaning "beautiful world" or "fashionable society."
• Smart set (n): A more informal English term for a fashionable, sophisticated social group.

Synonyms

• High society
• The elite
• The fashionable set
• The upper crust
• The jet set

Antonyms

• The masses
• The common people
• The hoi polloi

Related Idioms and Phrases

• To set the tone: While not containing the phrase "bon ton," this idiom relates to establishing a standard of behavior or style, which is what the "bon ton" does.
  • The Duchess's arrival set the tone for the entire evening.

Noun

1. the fashionable elite