mesalliance

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The word "mesalliance" is a noun that refers to a marriage or union between a person of higher social status and a person of lower social status. This term is often used in a negative way, suggesting that the marriage is seen as inappropriate or not suitable because of the difference in social standing.

Usage Instructions:

• When to use: You can use "mesalliance" when discussing social class differences in relationships, especially in historical or literary contexts.
• How to use: It is often used to describe a situation where someone from a wealthy or high-status background marries someone from a less privileged background.

Example:

• "The noble family disapproved of their daughter's mesalliance with a commoner."

Advanced Usage:

In literature or discussions about social norms, "mesalliance" can be used to critique societal expectations regarding marriage and class.

Word Variants:

• Mesalliance (noun): The act of marrying someone of lower status.
• Mesalliance (noun): The state of being in such a marriage.

Different Meaning:

While "mesalliance" primarily refers to marriage, it can also be used metaphorically to describe any type of partnership or association that is considered socially inappropriate.

Synonyms:

• Unequal marriage
• Class mismatch
• Improper alliance

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

There are no direct idioms or phrasal verbs that use "mesalliance," but you might encounter phrases like "marrying down" to describe a similar concept in a more colloquial way.

Summary:

"Mesalliance" is a specific term used to describe a marriage between individuals of significantly different social classes, often viewed negatively.

Academic

Noun

1. a marriage with a person of inferior social status