a network of agents

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a network of agents" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a group of individuals or entities that work together or are interconnected for a specific purpose or function. Example: "The organization operates through a network of agents who facilitate communication and collaboration across various departments."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

44 human-written examples

"The most important thing is to establish a network of agents and informers".

The Guardian

Wired money is transferred electronically from one city to another through a network of agents.

The New York Times

This supported a network of agents and managers and roadies and promotional staff, so the expense was considerable.

The Guardian - Music

A network of agents across Africa and the Middle East assemble convoys of migrants for the long trek to Libya.

The Guardian

According to court documents, Metsos was the go-between for a network of agents across the US.

The Guardian

Most of them prefer an "integrated" approach, generally meaning setting up a website while maintaining a network of agents.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

The Freight Forwarding segment arranges domestic and international shipments using ground, air and ocean transport through a network of agent-owned and company owned locations.

Forbes

A network of literary agents and sub-agents developed decades ago, covering the globe.

The Guardian - Books

A network of 36 agents was created, where each agent represented one individual.

BMC Medical Informatics and Decision Making

It allows them to deposit with or withdraw cash from a network of small agents.

The Economist

But now a series of revelations concerning a network of undercover agents has become a growing crisis for police.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a network of agents" to convey the interconnected and distributed nature of individuals working toward a common goal, particularly in contexts where direct control is not emphasized.

Common error

Avoid using "a network of agents" when describing organizations with strong central control. This phrase implies distributed decision-making and independent operation, which may not be accurate for highly centralized entities.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a network of agents" functions primarily as a noun phrase. According to Ludwig AI, it's used to describe a group or system where individuals or entities are interconnected and work together for a common purpose. It frequently acts as the subject or object of a sentence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

4%

Academia

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a network of agents" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe a system or group of interconnected individuals working towards a shared objective. As Ludwig AI confirms, it frequently appears in diverse contexts, primarily in News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business settings, with a neutral register. When writing, consider the implications of using this phrase, particularly the emphasis on distributed effort and interconnectedness, and avoid using it to describe centralized structures. Consider using alternative terms such as "a web of operatives" or "a system of representatives" when a different nuance is needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a web of operatives

This alternative replaces "network" with "web" and "agents" with "operatives", implying a more clandestine or interconnected structure.

a circuit of operatives

This alternative swaps 'network' with 'circuit' and 'agents' with 'operatives' which suggests a closed or secretive circle.

a system of representatives

This alternative uses "system" instead of "network" and "representatives" instead of "agents", suggesting a more formal and organized arrangement.

a syndicate of actors

This alternative is similar to "a network of agents", but it might imply a group involved in illicit or organized activities.

an alliance of representatives

This alternative emphasizes the collaborative nature of the group, using "alliance" and "representatives" to suggest a united front.

a consortium of associates

This alternative replaces "network" with "consortium", implying a collaboration or partnership for a specific project or purpose.

a group of contacts

This alternative is less formal, replacing "network" with "group" and "agents" with "contacts", implying a more casual or informal connection.

a task force of specialists

This alternative specifies the agents as "specialists" and highlights a mission-oriented organization.

a team of fieldworkers

This alternative specifies the type of agents as "fieldworkers", implying individuals working directly in a particular area or domain.

a chain of command

This phrase suggests a structured hierarchy, emphasizing authority and obedience within the group.

FAQs

How does the connotation of "a network of agents" differ from "a chain of command"?

"A network of agents" implies a decentralized, interconnected group working collaboratively, whereas "a chain of command" suggests a hierarchical structure with clear lines of authority. The former emphasizes collaboration, the latter emphasizes control.

When is it more appropriate to use "a system of representatives" instead of "a network of agents"?

Use "a system of representatives" when the individuals are formally designated to act on behalf of a larger entity. "A network of agents" is more suitable when describing individuals working together without formal designation.

What are some contexts where "a web of operatives" might be preferred over "a network of agents"?

"A web of operatives" suggests a more secretive or clandestine operation. If the group's activities are confidential or potentially illicit, "a web of operatives" may be a more fitting description than "a network of agents".

How can I best incorporate "a network of agents" into my writing to emphasize collaboration?

When using "a network of agents", highlight the collaborative aspects of their work. For example, you can describe how they share information, coordinate their efforts, or support each other's initiatives. Also, consider linking it with "working together" to enforce the concept.