a pox on humanity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a pox on humanity" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express strong disapproval or condemnation of something perceived as harmful to humanity. Example: "After witnessing the devastation caused by war, I couldn't help but think, a pox on humanity for allowing such suffering."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Given that Ms. Zoe is already a pox on humanity — exploiting an aesthetic of dissipation, invading our collective consciousness and spraying it with dummy dust — it is amazing that "The Rachel Zoe Project," which focuses on her career, manages to send its audience deeper into the territory of smug NPR obsessives who won't stop ranting about triviality's conquest of the American soul.

The New York Times - Arts

Still -- a pox on humanity?

Huffington Post

Zoe is literally labeled "a pox on humanity".

Huffington Post

Call her a pox on humanity, but don't deny -- she's a beauty mark on the drab face of uninspired television.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Proliferating "free-trade areas" have become a pox on the world trading system.

The Economist

Yes, supply side economics has been a pox on this country, on the world -- a pox on capitalism with a predatory financial system and unfiltered greed becoming a malignant cancer.

Huffington Post

But his message is as clear as the graffiti he records in one of his sallies: "A Pox on the Olympics".

The New Yorker

A pox on them.

The New Yorker

A pox on precedent.

The Guardian - Film

A pox on the thought.

The Guardian - Sport

A pox on both groups.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a pox on humanity" sparingly and in contexts where you want to convey strong disapproval or condemnation of human actions or the state of the world. It is most effective when the target of the phrase is clear.

Common error

Avoid using "a pox on humanity" in everyday conversation. Its intensity can come across as melodramatic or insincere if used too casually. Reserve it for situations where the gravity of the situation warrants such strong language.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a pox on humanity" functions as an interjection or exclamation expressing strong disapproval, condemnation, or frustration towards humanity. Ludwig examples demonstrate its use in contexts where human actions are deemed detrimental or deplorable.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a pox on humanity" is a strong expression of disapproval or condemnation, typically used in response to actions or situations seen as detrimental to the world or to humanity itself. Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically correct but relatively rare, primarily appearing in news and media contexts. The phrase carries a negative connotation and is best used sparingly to avoid sounding melodramatic. While similar phrases like "a curse upon humanity" or "shame on humanity" offer alternatives, it's important to consider the context and intended impact when choosing the most appropriate expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A curse upon humanity

Replaces "pox" with "curse", implying a supernatural condemnation.

A plague on humankind

Substitutes "humanity" with "humankind" and "pox" with "plague", suggesting widespread suffering.

A blight upon the world

Changes the target from "humanity" to the "world", indicting a broader scope of devastation.

Shame on humanity

Shifts from a curse to an expression of disappointment and disgrace.

Damn humanity

A more forceful and direct expression of condemnation.

Humanity is a disgrace

Rephrases the sentiment as a declarative statement of humanity's flaws.

I despise humanity

Expresses personal contempt for humanity.

Humanity is abhorrent

Replaces "disgrace" with "abhorrent", a stronger term for disgust.

A woe to humankind

Emphasizes sorrow and lament over the state of humanity.

May humanity be condemned

Phrases the sentiment as a wish for humanity's punishment.

FAQs

How can I use "a pox on humanity" in a sentence?

You can use "a pox on humanity" to express strong disapproval or condemnation. For example, "After seeing the environmental damage caused by the corporation, I thought, "a pox on humanity" for prioritizing profit over the planet."

What are some alternatives to "a pox on humanity"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "shame on humanity", "a curse upon humanity", or "humanity is a disgrace".

Is "a pox on humanity" an appropriate phrase to use in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "a pox on humanity" is generally too strong and informal for most formal writing. Consider using more measured and objective language to convey your disapproval.

What does "a pox on humanity" actually mean?

The phrase "a pox on humanity" expresses a wish for misfortune or a curse upon humanity, usually due to its perceived failings or destructive actions. It is a strong expression of disappointment and condemnation.