a set of simpletons

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a set of simpletons" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a group of people who are perceived as foolish or lacking intelligence. Example: "The committee was filled with a set of simpletons who couldn't agree on the most basic issues."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

If you're dealing with a group of simpletons you can pretty much make up words as you go along.

WikiHow

Shouldn't we assume that is sincere, and not just some functionary in Iran, trying to bait a bunch of simpleton lawmakers?

HuffPost

The director sees the play's restless crew of simpletons, hellions, rogues, rustics and romantics as engaged in a tumultuous struggle to make sense of their chaotic world and discover what really matters.

The New York Times

Adverts for insurance comparison websites have long treated the British public like a shower of infantilised simpletons.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Mother drew a number of local simpletons into her orbit, among them poor old drunken Thaddeus Craven, and burnt them up as thoroughly as the earth's atmosphere consumes asteroids.

The New Yorker

By the time the party is over, her relationship is, too, and most everything else seems imperiled, including her friendships with a gaggle of socialite simpletons (June Diane Raphael, among others).

The New York Times

Anyway, you'd have to be the worst sort of simpleton to see La Tuns as anything other than a very good thing.

The Guardian - Music

Indeed, although Galileo states in the preface of his book that the character is named after a famous Aristotelian philosopher (Simplicius in Latin, Simplicio in Italian), the name "Simplicio" in Italian also has the connotation of "simpleton".

Wikipedia

The moderator of the show is serial race-baiter Eric Bolling and the panel consists of a Lazy Susan of cackling simpletons.

Huffington Post

"He's not a very sophisticated guy," Mr. Tacopina said, adding that his client was "maybe a bit of a simpleton".

The New York Times

The driver who hit him, 42-year-old Bryan Smith of Fryeburg, is known locally as a bit of a simpleton.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a set of simpletons", consider your audience and the context. It can be perceived as offensive, so ensure it aligns with your intended tone and message.

Common error

Avoid using "a set of simpletons" in formal writing or professional settings. Opt for more neutral or polite terms like "uninformed individuals" or "inexperienced group" to maintain a respectful tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a set of simpletons" functions as a noun phrase, specifically acting as a descriptor for a group of people deemed unintelligent or foolish. As Ludwig AI suggests, it is usable in written English, though potentially offensive.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a set of simpletons" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe a group of people perceived as unintelligent or foolish. As Ludwig AI states, while usable, its potentially offensive nature makes it unsuitable for formal contexts. Consider alternative, less pejorative phrases such as "a group of fools" or "an inexperienced group" depending on the situation. This expression is relatively uncommon and carries a strong negative connotation. Context is crucial when deciding to use this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a group of fools

Replaces "simpletons" with a more common and direct synonym, "fools".

a bunch of idiots

Uses a more informal and derogatory term, "idiots", to describe the group.

a collection of dimwits

Employs the less harsh term "dimwits", suggesting a lack of intelligence.

a gathering of nitwits

Substitutes with "nitwits", implying foolishness and lack of common sense.

an assembly of imbeciles

Replaces "simpletons" with a more clinical term, "imbeciles", indicating significant intellectual deficiency.

a pack of dunces

Utilizes "dunces", suggesting individuals who are slow to learn or understand.

a troop of blockheads

Replaces with "blockheads", implying stupidity and lack of intellect.

a cluster of dolts

Uses "dolts", suggesting clumsiness and stupidity.

a cadre of halfwits

Substitutes with "halfwits", implying limited intelligence or foolishness.

a throng of nincompoops

Employs "nincompoops", a more playful and less offensive term for foolish people.

FAQs

How can I use "a set of simpletons" in a sentence?

You can use "a set of simpletons" to describe a group of people perceived as unintelligent or easily fooled. For example, "The policy was easily passed because the board was comprised of "a set of simpletons"."

What is a less offensive way to say "a set of simpletons"?

Consider using phrases like "a group of fools", "an inexperienced group", or "uninformed individuals" depending on the context.

Is "a set of simpletons" grammatically correct?

Yes, "a set of simpletons" is grammatically correct. It follows the standard structure of an article (a), a noun (set), a preposition (of), and another noun (simpletons).

What's the difference between "a set of simpletons" and "a group of simpletons"?

The difference is negligible; both phrases are used to describe a collection of unintelligent people. "Set" and "group" are interchangeable in this context.