as a mere object

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as a mere object" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something or someone being viewed or treated without any deeper significance or value, often in a critical context. Example: "In the discussion, she felt that her contributions were dismissed, and she was seen as a mere object rather than a valuable participant."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

Objectify: (verb) to treat something as a mere object, to deny its dignity.

The Guardian - Opinion

The rational being, he recognizes, must be treated always as an end in himself, as something of intrinsic value, and never as a mere object to be disposed of according to purposes that are not its own.

Encyclopedia Britannica

A person avoids treating another as a mere object or instrument if he is attentive to whether his parter is giving, tacitly or overtly, ongoing consent to the type of use and the particular instance of it.

SEP

In other words, some actions in which we use another's body sexually are consistent with recognizing the person so used as an end and do not involve treating her as a mere object, in the Kantian sense.

SEP

Merleau-Ponty and Sartre, when describing our body's intentional engagement in the world in the pursuit of its tasks, stress that we are unaware of our body as a mere object among objects, rather it is the point from which engagement begins and that which is the source of the 'I can' which founds our relationship to our environment.

SEP

I'd had seen her as a mere object of my affection.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

We have good reason to be skeptical of this description because, as Taylor Carman nicely puts it, "just as a useful thing is not a mere object with functional properties added on, neither is a work of art simply a useful thing with aesthetic qualities in addition".

SEP

More significant than the title subject, however, is the young woman's gaze, which is fixed on something (or nothing) outside the picture frame, and establishes her as a thinking subject — no longer a mere object to be portrayed by an artist.

The New York Times

In contrast, in the "Reification" essay, he argues that there is an intrinsic dialectics within the class consciousness of the proletariat (Arato and Breines 1979: 131 136; for an epistemological reading see Jameson 2009, 65ff)., arising from its objective position as mere object of the social process.

SEP

It seems, for example, that what comes into existence on the above account of the generating process (which talks of authors' conceiving of their literary creations) is not a fictional object as such, but rather a (mere) intentional object, the target of a certain authorial thought.

SEP

A fantasy experience (e.g., an assumption) can be understood either (1) as a pretence of experiencing seriously (e.g., of making a judgment) or (2) as a mere entertaining of the object (e.g., an objective without a pretence of judging) (1917, §6, 47 53 [47 53]).

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "as a mere object", consider the ethical implications of reducing something or someone to a purely functional or material entity. This phrase is often used to critique such reductions, so ensure your usage aligns with your intended message.

Common error

Avoid using "as a mere object" casually. This phrase carries a strong connotation of devaluation and can be insensitive if not used thoughtfully and critically. Consider whether a more neutral description is appropriate if your intent is not to critique objectification.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as a mere object" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase that modifies a verb or noun, indicating the manner in which something is viewed or treated. It underscores a reductionist perspective, stripping away inherent value or complexity. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

43%

Encyclopedias

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "as a mere object" is a prepositional phrase employed to express a reductive viewpoint, often used to critique objectification. Ludwig AI analysis indicates the phrase is grammatically correct and usable, albeit with strong ethical connotations. Its occurrence is relatively uncommon, with usage concentrated in news, media, scientific, and philosophical texts. When using this phrase, be mindful of its critical implications and ensure it aligns with your intended message. Ludwig suggests alternative phrasings like "simply as an object" or "merely as an object" to convey a similar, although slightly softened, meaning. Remember that employing this phrase thoughtfully can enhance your communication by clearly conveying a critical perspective on objectification.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

simply as an object

Emphasizes the lack of additional qualities or considerations beyond being an object.

merely as an object

Uses "merely" to highlight the limited perception or treatment.

as just an object

Uses "just" to convey a sense of belittlement or devaluation.

as nothing more than an object

Strongly emphasizes the absence of any additional value or importance.

as a purely functional item

Focuses on the object's use without acknowledging other aspects.

as a disposable item

Highlights the lack of perceived value and the ease of replacement.

as a tool

Implies the object is solely for achieving a specific purpose.

as a commodity

Conveys the object's treatment as something to be bought and sold, often without regard for its intrinsic qualities.

in an objectified manner

Highlights the process of objectification, focusing on how something is treated rather than what it is.

with a purely utilitarian view

Focuses on the practical use of the object, neglecting other dimensions.

FAQs

What does it mean to treat someone "as a mere object"?

Treating someone "as a mere object" means disregarding their inherent worth and dignity, viewing them solely for their utility or physical attributes, often for selfish purposes. It implies a lack of empathy and respect.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "as a mere object"?

It's appropriate to use "as a mere object" when you want to critique or highlight the act of reducing someone or something to a purely functional or material entity, stripping away their intrinsic value. It is often used in discussions about objectification, dehumanization, and ethical treatment.

What are some alternative ways to express the idea of treating something without respect or value?

You could say "simply as an object", "merely as an object", or "as just an object". These alternatives similarly convey a sense of devaluation and lack of respect.

Is using "as a mere object" always negative?

While generally used in a critical or negative context to highlight objectification or devaluation, the phrase itself isn't inherently negative. It depends on the overall message and intention. Sometimes it is used as a neutral descriptor to denote an existence without agency or value.