A stream of curses

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "A stream of curses" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a continuous or flowing expression of angry or offensive words, often in response to frustration or annoyance. Example: "After the car broke down in the middle of the highway, he unleashed a stream of curses that echoed in the empty vehicle."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

He turned away with a stream of curses.

The New York Times - Sports

The tracking software has already prompted a stream of curses from Amman.

The Washington Post

I headed to one of the eight cramped dressing rooms and was warming up when I heard a crash, followed by a stream of curses.

The New York Times

The laboring classes, in their turn, appeared to him coarse and degraded, drinking heavily in public, speaking in a stream of curses, making obscene jokes in front of women and children.

Wikipedia

That would include very large shaved-head man in a kilt; a high school teacher who brought along the school's cheerleaders; an Eskimo who brought snow; roller skating sisters and one man who tended to erupt in a stream of curses in his native Italian.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Leonard launched into a stream of curse words.

The New York Times - Sports

Could it have something to do with the fact that when he returned to Madison Square Garden after he had been traded to the Timberwolves, he turned to Knicks owner James Dolan, whose ineptness is exceeded by his control-freak tendencies, seated and unleashed a stream of invective and curses that was apparently shocking in its vulgarity?

The New Yorker

When I met the thoroughly cinephilic Pen-ek, who is quick to admit his admiration for old-school American indies like Woody Allen and Robert Altman, he was busy hurling a stream of profanities at Paul Thomas Anderson's Magnolia - cursing it out of awed admiration.

The Guardian - Film

On the other hand, those who take against these nudes and one hopes, as with any important show, for a stream of turbid complaints will storm down the steps of the Met, cursing Irving Penn as the Henry VIII of the Rolleiflex.

The New Yorker

On the other hand, those who take against these nudes — and one hopes, as with any important show, for a stream of turbid complaints — will storm down the steps of the Met, cursing Irving Penn as the Henry VIII of the Rolleiflex.

The New Yorker

A stream of eggs was laid.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a stream of curses" when you want to convey a continuous and forceful expression of anger, frustration, or disapproval through offensive language. Consider the context and audience to ensure the phrase is appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "a stream of curses" in formal or professional writing. Opt for more neutral or professional language to maintain a respectful and appropriate tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a stream of curses" functions as a noun phrase. It typically acts as the object of a verb, describing the outpouring of offensive words. As Ludwig AI explains, the phrase is grammatically correct. Examples show its use to describe reactions to frustrating events.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Wiki

17%

Science

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a stream of curses" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe a continuous outpouring of offensive language. As Ludwig AI confirms, its function is primarily to express strong negative emotions like anger or frustration. While it is most commonly found in News & Media, it also appears in Wiki contexts. Although the phrase itself is neutral in tone, remember to consider the register of your writing and avoid using it in formal settings. Alternatives such as "a torrent of abuse" or "a barrage of insults" may be more suitable depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a torrent of abuse

Focuses on the abusive nature of the language, emphasizing the harshness and negativity.

a barrage of insults

Highlights the repeated and overwhelming nature of the offensive remarks.

a flood of expletives

Emphasizes the use of swear words and offensive language.

a tirade of insults

Implies a lengthy and angry speech filled with insults.

a volley of profanities

Suggests a rapid and forceful outburst of swear words.

an outburst of obscenities

Focuses on the offensive and shocking nature of the language.

a cascade of swear words

Emphasizes the continuous and abundant flow of curse words.

a diatribe of invective

Implies a bitter and abusive denunciation.

a spate of cussing

Highlights a sudden and intense period of swearing.

a hail of damnations

Emphasizes the severity and condemnation expressed through curses.

FAQs

How can I use "a stream of curses" in a sentence?

You can use "a stream of curses" to describe someone expressing intense anger or frustration, such as: "After losing the game, he unleashed "a stream of curses"." It emphasizes the continuous and uncontrolled nature of the offensive language.

What can I say instead of "a stream of curses"?

You can use alternatives like "a torrent of abuse", "a barrage of insults", or "a flood of expletives" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "a stream of curses" appropriate for formal writing?

No, "a stream of curses" is generally not appropriate for formal writing. It is more suitable for informal contexts or when describing situations involving strong emotions. In formal settings, opt for more neutral language.

What's the difference between "a stream of curses" and "a string of curses"?

"A stream of curses" implies a continuous and flowing outburst of offensive language, while "a string of curses" suggests a sequence or series of curses strung together. The former emphasizes the intensity and uninterrupted nature of the cursing.