a collective subject

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a collective subject" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a group or entity that acts or is considered as a single unit in a particular context. Example: "In the discussion of social movements, a collective subject often emerges, representing the shared interests and goals of the group."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Like Gilbert, he constructs a collective subject on the basis of joint commitments and then applies it to the notion of collective responsibility.

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Contemporary defenders of collective responsibility sometimes recall Hobbes's Leviathan in their own attempt to develop a collective subject (see for example: Copp 1980).

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It just does not seem to be all there is to being a collective subject of intentionality that a given group can be viewed as such.

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This distinction entails the possibility of critique of reification that does not require a complete reappropriation of objective social forms by a collective subject.

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Moreover, some of these authors maintained that all these acts or experiences assume different shapes if they are performed by an individual or by a collective subject.

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A collective subject like 'a people' or a state cannot be put on par with popular sovereignty as this would blur the distinction between popular and state sovereignty.

European Journal of Futures Research

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

Some authors claim that collective intentionality is intentionality with a collective content, others seem to invoke a special mode, while still others claim that what's collective about collective intentionality has to be the subject.

SEP

The following question arises: How to secure the autonomy of the citizens if there is also the autonomy of a collective (macro) subject – the state – to be safeguarded?

European Journal of Futures Research

The "us" is objectified by an Other and hence has the ontological status of being-in-itself but the collective subject or "we," he insists, is simply a psychological experience.

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The method of the Discourse of the Collective Subject was used to analyze the data.

Land Use Policy

Hobbes's collective subject not only represented group members but captured their very being as members of his Leviathan.

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Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a collective subject" when you want to emphasize that a group is acting as a single, unified entity with shared intentions or responsibilities.

Common error

While grammatically correct, using "a collective subject" in very informal writing can sound overly academic or stilted. Opt for simpler terms like "group" or "team" for everyday communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a collective subject" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject of a sentence or clause. It refers to a group or entity that is considered and acts as a single, unified unit, often in philosophical or sociological contexts. According to Ludwig, it's grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

67%

News & Media

25%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a collective subject" is a noun phrase used to describe a group or entity acting as a unified whole. While grammatically correct, as confirmed by Ludwig, it is most appropriate in formal contexts, such as academic writing or philosophical discussions. Ludwig's analysis reveals its frequent use in science and news media. When aiming for simpler language in informal settings, consider using alternatives like "a group entity" or "a unified body". Remember that using this phrase is a deliberate choice to portray a group's unified agency and intentionality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a group entity

Emphasizes the unified nature and existence of the group.

a unified body

Highlights the cohesive and singular aspect of the group.

a shared identity

Focuses on the common characteristics and sense of belonging within the group.

a communal agent

Stresses the active role and shared agency of the collective.

a joint entity

Highlights the combined or cooperative nature of the subject.

an aggregate subject

Indicates a collection of individuals considered as a whole.

a consolidated group

Emphasizes the strength and stability of the unified subject.

a team entity

Focuses on the collaborative nature and shared goals within the group.

a corporate subject

Draws parallels to organizational entities and their collective actions.

a combined force

Illustrates the strength and unified power of the collective.

FAQs

How can I use "a collective subject" in a sentence?

You can use "a collective subject" to describe a group acting as one. For example, "The committee operated as "a collective subject", making decisions unanimously."

What are some alternatives to using "a collective subject"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "a group entity", "a unified body", or "a shared identity".

When is it appropriate to use "a collective subject" in writing?

It's appropriate in academic, philosophical, or formal contexts when discussing groups with shared intentionality, responsibility, or agency. It's often seen in discussions of collective responsibility.

Is "collective subject" the same as "subject of collective"?

No, "collective subject" refers to the group acting as a subject, whereas "subject of collective" would imply something being acted upon by a collective. The meanings are quite different.