jack mormon
RareInformal, Potentially Pejorative
Definition
Meaning
A non-practising or lapsed member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
A person who identifies culturally with Mormonism or Mormon heritage but does not strictly adhere to its religious practices or doctrines. Can sometimes imply a member who selectively observes church rules or is only nominally affiliated.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Often used historically; modern usage within Mormon contexts may be considered derogatory or judgmental. It describes a status of religious affiliation, not an official church designation.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Virtually unknown in British English. Exclusively used in American English contexts, specifically those related to or discussing Mormon culture in the United States, particularly in Utah and surrounding states.
Connotations
In American usage, it carries connotations of cultural identity clashing with personal behaviour. It can range from mildly teasing to critically judgmental.
Frequency
Low frequency even in American English, confined to specific regional and cultural discussions.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
[be/consider/call] + NP + (a) jack mormonVocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “So jack Mormon he drinks coffee on Fast Sunday.”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Not used.
Academic
Used in historical, sociological, or religious studies contexts discussing Mormon culture and religious practice.
Everyday
Used in informal conversation within or about Mormon communities, particularly in the Western U.S.
Technical
Not used in technical language; a socio-cultural label.
Examples
By Part of Speech
adjective
British English
- The jack mormon community was discussed in the article.
American English
- He has a jack Mormon uncle who lives in Salt Lake City.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- His brother is a jack mormon.
- My neighbour is a jack mormon; he comes from a Mormon family but doesn't go to church.
- The term 'jack mormon' is sometimes used to describe individuals who maintain a cultural connection to the LDS Church but are not observant.
- The sociological study examined the identity negotiation of self-described jack mormons who participate in Mormon cultural events while rejecting key theological tenets.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'Jack' as a generic name for a regular guy; a 'Jack Mormon' is just a regular guy from a Mormon background who doesn't follow all the rules.
Conceptual Metaphor
RELIGIOUS COMMITMENT IS A JOURNEY / PATH (A 'jack mormon' is metaphorically someone who has strayed from the path).
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Do not translate 'jack' literally as 'домкрат' (car jack). It is a fixed compound term. The term lacks a direct cultural equivalent in Russian religious vocabulary.
Common Mistakes
- Capitalizing 'jack' (it is typically lowercased).
- Using it to refer to any non-Mormon.
- Confusing it with 'Jack Mormon' as a personal name.
Practice
Quiz
In which context is the term 'jack mormon' primarily used?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is an informal, culturally-derived label, not an official ecclesiastical designation. The Church typically uses terms like 'less-active' or 'inactive.'
Yes. The term usually refers to a person on the membership rolls who is not actively participating or is not fully observant, not someone who has been excommunicated.
It can be perceived as derogatory or judgmental, depending on tone and context. Many consider it outdated or pejorative, while some may use it self-referentially without negative intent.
The etymology is debated. It dates to the 19th century. One theory suggests 'jack' was a generic term for a common man or fellow. Another links it to non-Mormons who were friendly to Mormon settlers ('Jack's Mormon').