a string of expletives

USAGE SUMMARY

"a string of expletives" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe a series of profane or coarse words, usually uttered in anger or frustration. For example, "He was so angry he shouted a string of expletives."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

A string of expletives.

The New York Times - Books

He let loose a string of expletives.

The New York Times

He fires off a string of expletives.

The New York Times - Magazine

There was usually a string of expletives attached".

The New York Times - Magazine

"One month". Then he let loose with a string of expletives about the war.

The Washington Post

The boy complies with a string of expletives, to raucous laughter in the studio.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

22 human-written examples

"I'd never sell it in my store," she said, using a string of imaginative expletives to describe how the ubiquitous American chocolate tastes to her.

The New York Times

A gust of wind meant a wobbly ride, a string of bleeped expletives and much amusement down in the commentary box.

The Guardian - Sport

There is the bellicose language of the checkpoint: "Go" and "Stop" (often rendered as "stob" in a language with no "p"), along with a string of American expletives that Iraqi children imitate with zeal.

The Washington Post

Writer thinks that a squashed fly can be a more moving indicator of a writer's state of mindNhis destructive processNthan a whole string of expletives.

The New Yorker

She quietly burst out a short string of expletives, then turned to the people sitting near her on the courtroom bench and apologized.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "a string of expletives" to vividly describe someone's angry or frustrated reaction, adding emphasis to their emotional state. For example: "After losing the game, the coach unleashed "a string of expletives" that echoed through the locker room."

Common error

While "a string of expletives" is descriptive, avoid using it repeatedly in your writing. Vary your descriptions by using synonyms or focusing on the character's actions or tone instead of always detailing their exact words.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a string of expletives" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb (e.g., 'uttered', 'unleashed', 'fired off') or as a complement describing a state or action. Ludwig confirms its correct usage in numerous contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a string of expletives" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to describe a series of swear words, typically expressed in anger or frustration. Ludwig confirms this with numerous examples primarily from News & Media sources. While the phrase itself isn't inherently formal, it's often used in neutral contexts to report on situations involving offensive language. Remember to use this phrase judiciously, considering the audience and the desired tone of your writing. Alternatives such as "a barrage of swear words" or "a torrent of obscenities" can offer varied emphasis depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A barrage of swear words

Replaces "string" with "barrage", emphasizing the intensity and rapid delivery of the expletives.

A stream of curses

Substitutes "expletives" with "curses", suggesting a more malevolent or vengeful intent.

A torrent of obscenities

Emphasizes the overwhelming and uncontrolled nature of the offensive language.

A foul-mouthed tirade

Highlights the angry and accusatory nature of the speech, adding a descriptor of the type of speech.

A profane outburst

Focuses on the sudden and uncontrolled release of offensive language.

A volley of insults

Shifts the focus to the offensive and disrespectful nature of the words used.

A litany of cuss words

Implies a repetitive and almost ritualistic use of swear words.

Obscene language

A more general term, lacks the imagery of a continuous flow.

Vulgar language

Similar to "obscene language", but emphasizes the lack of refinement or taste.

Abusive language

Focuses on the harmful and offensive nature of the words, rather than their specific content.

FAQs

What does "a string of expletives" mean?

The phrase "a string of expletives" refers to a series of swear words or curse words, usually spoken in anger or frustration. It implies a continuous flow of offensive language.

What can I say instead of "a string of expletives"?

You can use alternatives like "a barrage of swear words", "a torrent of obscenities", or "a profane outburst", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use the phrase "a string of expletives" in formal writing?

While the phrase itself is grammatically correct, it describes language that is generally considered inappropriate for formal writing. In formal contexts, it's better to use more neutral language to describe the situation.

How can I describe someone's use of offensive language without using the phrase "a string of expletives"?

You could say the person "unleashed a tirade", "used abusive language", or "cursed repeatedly". The specific wording depends on the context and the level of detail you want to provide.