Ivory Tower Idiom: Check Meaning, Synonyms & Quiz

The ivory tower idiom refers to a place or situation that is isolated from the realities of everyday life. It often implies a place of intellectual pursuit that is removed from the practical concerns of the world. To learn more about this phrase and understand how you can add it to the English grammar, make sure to keep reading to learn more about the ivory tower idiom. At the end, we’ve included a quiz for you to take. 

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Ivory Tower Idiom: Meaning & Origin

As discussed above, the idiom ivory tower refers to a place or situation that is isolated from the realities of everyday life. It often implies a place of intellectual pursuit or artistic endeavour that is removed from the practical concerns of the world.

Check a few examples of the ivory tower which will help you understand how you can implement it in the sentences:

• The professor’s ivory tower prevented him from understanding the real-world challenges faced by his students.

• Living in the ivory tower of academia, the philosopher had little experience with the practicalities of daily life.

The idiom “ivory tower” originated from the image of a tower made of ivory. Ivory was a symbol of wealth, privilege, and detachment in ancient societies.

This imagery was used to describe a place or situation that is isolated from the realities of everyday life, often implying a place of intellectual pursuit or artistic endeavour that is removed from the practical concerns of the world.

Ivory Tower Idiom Example Sentences

Examine a few sample sentences on ivory tower idiom to gain a better understanding of their meaning. 

• The professor’s ivory tower prevented him from understanding the real-world challenges faced by his students.
• Living in the ivory tower of academia, the philosopher had little experience with the practicalities of daily life.
• The artist’s ivory tower allowed him to focus solely on his creative pursuits without distractions.
• The politician’s ivory tower made it difficult for him to connect with the concerns of ordinary citizens.
• The company’s ivory tower approach to innovation led to products that were out of touch with consumer needs.

Also Read: Hush Money Idiom: Meaning, Synonyms & Examples

Synonyms of Ivory Tower Idiom

It might be wise for you to be aware of various synonyms for the ivory tower idiom if you’re a writer and wish to utilise it in your writing. These will enable you to improve and elevate your writing to a new level.

Dream-world	Cloud-nine
Cloister	Hermitage

You can find more synonyms for this phrase by glancing at the picture below, which might be helpful. This image is always available for download and saving for later use. 

Also Read: Benefit of Doubt Meaning, Examples, Synonyms

Quiz on Ivory Tower Idiom 

After you have gained all the information about the ivory tower idiom, you must check your understanding through this quiz which we have prepared for you. You can check all your answers provided at the end. 

1. What does the idiom “ivory tower” typically symbolise?

1. A place of great luxury and wealth
2. A place of intellectual pursuit, often isolated from reality
3. A place of great danger and risk
4. A place of peace and tranquility

2. Which of the following scenarios best exemplifies someone living in an “ivory tower”?

1. A scientist working in a remote laboratory on a groundbreaking experiment
2. A politician campaigning for a local election
3. A firefighter battling a forest fire
4. A teacher working in a bustling urban school

3. The term “ivory tower” is often used to criticise people who:

1. Are too focused on their gain
2. Are too idealistic and out of touch with reality
3. Are too afraid to take risks
4. Are too generous and compassionate

Check Your Answers

1. A place of intellectual pursuit, often isolated from reality.
2. A scientist working in a remote laboratory on a groundbreaking experiment.
3. Are too idealistic and out of touch with reality.

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