allies

USAGE SUMMARY

The part of the phrase "allies" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when referring to individuals or groups that support or cooperate with one another, especially in a political or military context. Example: "The allies worked together to achieve a common goal." Alternative expressions include "partners" and "supporters."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Politics

History

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It is a good deal, a deal that meets our core objectives … If this framework leads to a final, comprehensive deal, it will make our country, our allies and our world safer".

The Guardian

He added: "After a comprehensive review I've determined that we can ensure the security of America and our allies – and maintain a strong and credible strategic deterrent – while reducing our deployed strategic nuclear weapons by up to one-third".

The Guardian

Many of those allies have Obama's ear, and they are bending it in favor of Summers.

The Guardian - Opinion

As against what he sees as Ukip's "unintelligent" approach, Cash has tended to style himself as a "Eurorealist", believing – in theory, at least – that the EU could be so could drastically reformed that he and his Eurosceptic allies would be happy staying in.

The Guardian

In 2008, Brown had very publicly crushed a proposal to agree to an early referendum put forth by the Scottish Labour leader Wendy Alexander, one of Brown's long-term allies.

The Guardian

It may be that sanctions against Mugabe and his allies have run their course and become counter-productive, gifting Zanu-PF propaganda and excuses.

The Guardian

Amid the rejoicing, the unlikely allies who had secured victory for the no campaign would soon be back at each other's throats, after Cameron seized the moment of triumph to play the English card – providing the SNP a quick route back from defeat.

The Guardian

They have to realise that the IRA's armed struggle is over.' Several of Trimble's closest allies were nervous and deeply uncertain about the IRA plan to put arms beyond use and allow international observers to monitor arms dumps.

The Guardian

"The government and its allies need to step up their protection, support services, and prosecutions of abuses to stop this cycle of terror".

The Guardian

During the debate several of Trimble's key allies deserted him, including Bertie Kerr, the Fermanagh delegate.

The Guardian

None of his three allies reacted, although a bewildered Mr Dos Santos - whose forces are fighting with tanks, artillery and aircraft for Mr Kabila - said he thought the discussion was about a ceasefire.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "allies" in contexts where mutual support and cooperation are central, not just any kind of relationship.

Common error

While "allies" implies mutual support and shared goals, "associates" simply means people or groups connected in some way. Don't use "associates" when you mean entities working actively together towards a common objective.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "allies" is as a plural noun, referring to entities (countries, groups, individuals) that are united for a common purpose. Ludwig provides many examples where "allies" functions this way in sentences.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

10%

Less common in

Academia

8%

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "allies" functions primarily as a plural noun denoting entities united for a common purpose. As verified by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and commonly used, particularly in news and formal contexts. While synonyms like "partners" and "collaborators" exist, "allies" often suggests a deeper commitment. Use "allies" when emphasizing mutual support and shared goals; avoid confusing it with weaker associations. Capitalize "Allies" when referencing the specific coalitions in major historical events. Frequency: Very common.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

partner nations

Refers specifically to nations that have formal agreements for cooperation, often in defense or trade.

coalition members

Denotes membership in a temporary alliance for a specific purpose.

friendly forces

Commonly used in military contexts to denote forces fighting on the same side.

associated powers

Refers to nations or entities with some common interests and goals.

collaborating countries

Emphasizes the act of working together towards a common goal, often in international projects or initiatives.

confederates

Implies a stronger bond and a shared ideology or goal, often in a political context.

supporting parties

Highlights the act of providing assistance or advocacy to a cause or entity.

fellow combatants

Specifically indicates individuals fighting together in a military context.

associated groups

Indicates a formal or informal connection between different entities.

cooperating entities

Highlights the act of working together towards a shared objective in various fields.

FAQs

How can I use "allies" in a sentence?

You can use "allies" to describe countries, groups, or people who work together towards a common goal. For example: "The countries formed a coalition and became "allies" in the fight against terrorism."

What's the difference between "allies" and "partners"?

While both terms suggest cooperation, "allies" often implies a deeper commitment and shared values, especially in the context of conflict or significant endeavors. "Partners" can refer to more transactional or business-related relationships, whereas the term ""allies"" often denotes a stronger bond.

Is it correct to use "allies" in a business context?

Yes, it can be used to describe companies or organizations that cooperate strategically, although "partners" or "collaborators" might be more common. For example: "The two tech companies became "allies" in their efforts to compete against larger corporations."

What are some synonyms for "allies"?

Synonyms for "allies" include "partners", "confederates", "collaborators", and "supporters", depending on the context.