ant processions

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ant processions" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the organized movement of ants, often seen in nature or in discussions about animal behavior. Example: "During our hike, we observed ant processions marching in a single file, carrying food back to their nest."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Records refer to a "procession of ants": hundreds of white-clad pilgrims scrambling up the steep slopes.

Independent

A lover asks his beloved, "How does one read the story of your hair?" There is also talk about the similarities of love and tobacco plants, not to mention the bread crumbs of "pride and dignity," carried away by a procession of metaphoric ants.

The New York Times

Its passage in the dark or dim-lit stall was as if time were being carried by a procession of ants, a gleaming red martial column of those militaristic red Southern ants that build hideous tall boiling hills; and each vile gleaming ant wanted a minuscule little portion of Poor Tony's flesh in compensation as it helped bear time forward down the corridor of true Withdrawal.

The New Yorker

Ant shudders.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

'Goodbye Ant.

The Guardian

Ant demurred.

The Guardian - Music

Ant surveillance?

The New York Times

Ant sips.

The New York Times - Food

See ant.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Some processions drew huge crowds.

The New York Times

Processions, Religious > Italy > Sicily.

Stanford University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing ant behavior, consider the specific context and choose more descriptive alternatives like "ant trails" or "ant columns" for increased clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "ant processions" in contexts where a simpler description of ant movement would suffice. Overusing the term can sound unnatural or overly formal. Instead, use phrases like "ants moving in a line" or "ant trails" where appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ant processions" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It describes a specific type of movement or activity undertaken by ants, often implying an organized or purposeful nature, as suggested by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "ant processions" is a grammatically correct but infrequently used noun phrase that describes the organized movement of ants. Ludwig indicates its potential for use across different contexts, though more common alternatives like "ant trails" or "ant columns" may be preferred for clarity and naturalness. This phrase is generally suitable for neutral to formal registers, fitting within both scientific and descriptive writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ant columns

Focuses on the formation of ants moving in a line, emphasizing their arrangement.

ant trails

Highlights the paths created and followed by ants, often scented for navigation.

ant marches

Emphasizes the ordered and purposeful movement of ants, similar to a military parade.

lines of ants

Describes the linear arrangement of ants, suitable for simple descriptions.

streams of ants

Suggests a continuous flow of ants, emphasizing their collective movement.

ant convoys

Implies a protected or guarded movement of ants, carrying resources or young.

ant caravans

Evokes images of a long journey made by ants, transporting goods or relocating.

ant parades

Similar to processions but can suggest a more celebratory or display-like movement.

moving ants

A general term for ants in motion, lacking the specificity of organized movement.

ant migrations

Describes large-scale movements of ant colonies, often due to environmental changes.

FAQs

What is another way to describe the organized movement of ants?

Alternatives include "ant columns", "ant trails", or "ant marches" depending on the specific context you want to emphasize.

How can I use "ant processions" in a sentence?

You might say, "During the summer months, we often observe long "ant processions" carrying food back to their nests" although alternatives might be more common.

What's the difference between "ant processions" and "ant trails"?

"Ant processions" implies a more formal or organized movement, while "ant trails" simply refers to the paths ants follow, which may or may not be highly structured.

Is "ant processions" a commonly used phrase?

While grammatically correct, "ant processions" isn't as common as alternatives like "ant columns" or "ant trails".