a wave of executions

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a wave of executions" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a sudden increase or surge in the number of executions, often in a specific context such as a political or legal situation. Example: "The country faced international condemnation following a wave of executions that targeted political dissidents."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

In Paris a wave of executions followed.

Encyclopedia Britannica

China checked the practice, widespread in the mid-1990's, with a wave of executions.

The New York Times

Hitler survived the ensuing blast, proclaiming divine providence, and set off a wave of executions of conspirators.

The New York Times

The breach with Ayatollah Khomeini became irreparable in January 1988, when Ayatollah Montazeri objected to a wave of executions of political prisoners and challenged the leadership to export the revolution by example, not by violence.

The New York Times

The first death sentence has been passed against a defendant accused of involvement in the mass protests in Iran against President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad's disputed re-election, prompting fears of a wave of executions against opposition activists.

The Guardian

Montazeri had privately raised concerns over treatment of prisoners with Khomeini as early as 1981, but his objections became more serious with a wave of executions in 1988 at the end of war with Iraq.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

The most gruesome manifestation of this repression has been a wave of public executions.

Los Angeles Times

But another defector-run website, North Korea Intellectual Solidarity, said its sources had reported several months ago on plans for a wave of public executions.

Huffington Post

Nelson kept the Jacobins imprisoned and approved of a wave of further executions, refusing to intervene despite pleas for clemency from the Hamiltons and the Queen of Naples.

Wikipedia

"When people confront a new wave of executions, they'll be questioning not only how people are executed but whether people should be executed," said James R. Acker, a historian of the death penalty and a criminal justice professor at the State University at Albany.

The New York Times

A Third Wave of Executions This year is the third surge in executions since the end of the 1966-1976 Cultural Revolution.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing "a wave of executions", provide specific context, such as the country, time period, and reasons behind the increase, to ensure clarity and avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "a wave of executions" without providing specific details, as this can lead to misunderstandings or misinterpretations. Always contextualize the phrase with relevant information.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a wave of executions" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a specific event or period characterized by a notable increase in executions. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Encyclopedias

12%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Science

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a wave of executions" is a noun phrase used to describe a sudden increase in the number of executions. It is grammatically correct and most commonly found in News & Media and encyclopedic contexts. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is usable in written English. While seemingly neutral, this term carries a somber undertone, so it is important to contextualize the phrase when employing it in writing. Common synonyms include "a surge in executions" or "a series of executions". The phrase's purpose is predominantly to inform or describe events related to capital punishment, but often it will be employed to express concern, especially when writing about human rights issues.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a surge in executions

Emphasizes the sudden increase in the number of executions.

a spate of executions

Highlights a large number of events, typically unpleasant ones, occurring in quick succession.

a series of executions

Focuses on the sequential nature of the executions, rather than the intensity of the increase.

mass executions

Indicates executions carried out on a large scale.

widespread executions

Suggests executions happening across a broad geographical area or among a large population.

stepped-up executions

Indicates that executions have been intensified or accelerated.

heightened executions

Indicates that executions have been increased or amplified.

a rise in executions

Simply indicates a numerical increase in executions.

an increase in capital punishment

Refers to the broader trend of increasing the use of the death penalty.

a period of executions

Emphasizes a specific timeframe during which executions are prevalent.

FAQs

What does "a wave of executions" mean?

The phrase "a wave of executions" refers to a sudden and significant increase in the number of executions carried out, often within a specific time frame or geographical area. It suggests a period of heightened activity in the application of capital punishment.

What are some alternatives to "a wave of executions"?

You can use alternatives like "a surge in executions", "a series of executions", or "mass executions" depending on the specific context you want to convey.

Is "a wave of executions" a neutral term?

While grammatically correct, "a wave of executions" often carries a negative connotation, as it implies a period of increased state-sanctioned killings. Consider your audience and purpose when using this phrase.

How can I use "a wave of executions" in a sentence?

You can use "a wave of executions" to describe a period characterized by an increase in the use of capital punishment. For example: "The international community condemned the country's recent "a wave of executions" targeting political dissidents."