a separate race

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a separate race" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in discussions about ethnicity, culture, or species, where distinctions between groups are being made. Example: "The study focused on the behaviors of a separate race that had developed unique survival strategies in isolation."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

Neither original group now exists as a separate race, but the name Canarios is now applied to all present residents.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Once again he moved majestically into the distance, leaving the rest looking as though they were in a separate race.

The Guardian - Sport

In 1930 Mexicans were classified as a separate race by the Census Bureau -- which reclassified them as white in 1940, after protests.

The New York Times

Today's recommendation was a rebuff to advocates of a multiracial category who have argued that, numerically, they are as large a group as American Indians and should be considered a separate race.

The New York Times

In a huge city, it is a fairly common observation that the dwellers in a slum are almost a separate race of people with different values, aspirations and ways of being.

The Guardian

Now she has six, with some help from Natasha Hastings, Courtney Okolo and Phyllis Francis, in a relay so controlled by the US and Jamaican teams that they were practically running a separate race to the third-place chasers.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

Sheikh Joaan, along with his cousin Sheikh Fahad who runs a separate racing team, is a relative newcomer to thoroughbred competition, although he has a background in Arabian racing.

BBC

The Church of Scotland and Scottish Unionist MPs complained that Irish Catholic immigrants were a "completely separate race of alien origin", demanded a halt to immigration and even advocated repatriation.

The Economist

And an entirely separate race is now on for fourth place.

The Guardian - Sport

There is also a separate 20K race for men.

The New York Times - Sports

Rather than each party conducting a separate nomination race and having those winners proceed to the general election in November, candidates from all parties in the state compete together in a single contest ― a so-called "jungle primary".

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing sensitive topics like ethnicity or origin, provide specific examples to avoid ambiguity or generalizations that may perpetuate stereotypes. For instance, specifying, "The study examines the impact of environmental policies on "a separate race", the indigenous people of the Amazon," adds clarity and context.

Common error

Avoid using "a separate race" interchangeably with terms like 'culture' or 'nationality'. Race is a contested concept often associated with physical characteristics, while culture encompasses shared beliefs and practices, and nationality denotes legal citizenship. For example, instead of saying "Their distinct culture makes them "a separate race"," clarify whether you're discussing cultural traditions, ethnic heritage, or physical traits.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a separate race" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "separate" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "race". This phrase is used to categorize or distinguish groups of people based on perceived differences, as illustrated in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

31%

Science

25%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

6%

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a separate race" is a phrase used to distinguish groups based on perceived differences, primarily in physical traits or ancestry. As Ludwig AI points out, the phrase is grammatically correct but requires careful consideration due to the complex and often controversial nature of race. The concept, while frequently used in news and media, science, and encyclopedias, carries historical and social baggage that warrants sensitivity. Alternatives such as "a distinct lineage" or "a unique ethnicity" may be more appropriate depending on the context, particularly when aiming to avoid the problematic connotations associated with race. Always provide specific examples to avoid generalizations and maintain accuracy when discussing ethnicity or origin.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a distinct lineage

Emphasizes ancestry and genetic heritage rather than a broader social construct.

a unique ethnicity

Focuses on cultural background and traditions, highlighting distinctiveness in heritage.

a different population

Highlights statistical differences in a group, such as geographic location and common traits.

an individual species

Shifts the focus to biology and classification, mostly intended for botanical contexts.

a discrete group

Highlights a defined and isolated group with shared characteristics, which may be cultural or geographical.

a particular stock

Emphasizes ancestry and breeding, common in agricultural and genealogical contexts.

a singular heritage

Stresses unique historical and cultural factors that differentiate a group from others.

a specialized kind

Highlights the unique specializations or adaptations that differentiate a group or population.

a removed nation

Focuses on the geographic and political isolation of a particular group.

an exclusive community

Highlights the isolation and unique qualities of a group, particularly in terms of social and cultural practices.

FAQs

What is the meaning of "a separate race"?

The phrase "a separate race" generally refers to a group of people distinguished by common ancestry, physical traits, or cultural characteristics. However, it's important to recognize that the concept of race is socially constructed and can vary across different contexts and historical periods.

When is it appropriate to use the term "a separate race"?

The term "a separate race" is appropriate when discussing historical classifications, anthropological studies, or specific scientific research that addresses the concept of race. However, it should be used with caution and sensitivity due to its complex and often controversial implications. Consider using more specific and nuanced language, such as "ethnic group" or "population group", where appropriate.

What are some alternatives to "a separate race" that I can use?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "a distinct lineage", "a unique ethnicity", or "a different population". These phrases can help to avoid the potentially problematic connotations of the term "race".

How has the understanding of "a separate race" changed over time?

Historically, the concept of "a separate race" was often used to justify discrimination and social inequality. Contemporary perspectives emphasize that race is a social construct with limited biological basis. Modern discourse focuses on promoting equality and understanding diversity through more inclusive and respectful language.