atrocities

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "atrocities" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe extremely cruel or violent acts, often in the context of war or human rights violations. Example: "The report detailed the atrocities committed during the conflict, shocking the international community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Some nations may be able to turn a blind eye to atrocities in other countries.

The New York Times

Poroshenko joined in the chorus of one song, pumping his fist and shouting, "Glory to Ukraine!" The singers drowned out protesters who had gathered across the street, including one in a Russian scarf, accusing the Ukrainian president of ignoring atrocities against civilians in rebel-held cities.

The Guardian

Rebels in eastern Ukraine have accused Right Sector of atrocities against Russian speakers.

The Guardian

Last year there was even talk at the FCO of giving to the Armenian Genocide Museum copies of some files in the National Archives attesting to the Ottoman atrocities: this was turned down, ostensibly because the photocopying costs of £431.20 could not be afforded, but probably because the Turks would go ballistic.

The Guardian - Books

Speaking of the use of chemical weapons in Syria, she said: "The fact that atrocities such as this continue to occur shows that we must remain vigilant to the threat of chemical and biological weapons".

The Guardian

As a feminist who has devoted her entire adult life to campaigning against unspeakable atrocities toward women committed by violent men, I find the idea of Brown's "rebranding" as a "hard man" ready to "pummel David Cameron into defeat with his bare fist" deeply offensive.

The Guardian - Opinion

On Friday afternoon, taking a break from my office, and the endless emails and calls about the atrocities, I went to get a haircut.

The Guardian - Opinion

If you go to Gulu, where the worst of his atrocities were committed, it's a different town.

The Guardian

Nothing, however, could have prepared me for the harrowing narrative that Mlalazi vividly presents, allowing the reader to live – and in some instances, relive – the atrocities of the genocidal Gukurahundi killings of the 1980s.

The Guardian

But Amnesty alleges that the military's response has resulted in further atrocities against civilians.

The Guardian

The international criminal court (ICC) in the Hague has previously said there was insufficient evidence tying Nigeria's military to systematic and orchestrated atrocities targeting civilians.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about sensitive topics like war or human rights, use "atrocities" to accurately convey the gravity and severity of the violent acts. Ensure that your language remains objective and avoids sensationalism.

Common error

Avoid using "atrocities" to describe minor offenses or disagreements. This word is reserved for extreme acts of violence and cruelty; using it inappropriately can diminish its impact and be perceived as hyperbolic.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "atrocities" is as a plural noun. It acts as the subject or object of a sentence, referring to multiple instances of extremely cruel or violent acts. Ludwig AI confirms this usage with numerous examples from varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "atrocities" functions as a plural noun, primarily used within news and media contexts to describe extremely cruel or violent acts. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and highlights its frequency. While grammatically sound, using "atrocities" should be reserved for situations of significant severity to maintain its impact. Alternatives like "barbaric acts" or "inhuman acts" may be suitable depending on the desired nuance. Given its prevalence in reputable sources like The Guardian and The New York Times, "atrocities" remains a powerful and appropriate term when used judiciously. Remember to maintain objectivity and avoid sensationalism when discussing sensitive subjects.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

barbaric acts

Focuses on the uncivilized and brutal nature of the actions.

inhuman acts

Highlights the lack of compassion and humanity in the actions.

heinous crimes

Emphasizes the wickedness and reprehensibility of the acts.

brutal offenses

Highlights the violence and cruelty of the offenses.

unspeakable horrors

Emphasizes the shocking and disturbing nature of the events.

gruesome acts

Focuses on the horrifying and repulsive nature of the actions.

savage acts

Highlights the uncontrolled and fierce nature of the actions.

horrendous acts

Emphasizes the dreadful and terrible nature of the actions.

egregious acts

Focuses on the outstandingly bad or shocking nature of the actions.

shocking violence

Highlights the element of surprise and the intensity of the violence.

FAQs

How can I use "atrocities" in a sentence?

"Atrocities" is typically used to describe extremely cruel or violent acts, especially during war or conflict. For example, "The report detailed the "atrocities" committed against civilians during the war."

What are some synonyms for "atrocities"?

Alternatives to "atrocities" include "barbaric acts", "inhuman acts", "heinous crimes", or "brutal offenses". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "atrocities" in non-war contexts?

While primarily associated with war and conflict, "atrocities" can be used in other contexts to describe exceptionally cruel and shocking acts of violence or abuse. However, ensure the severity of the situation warrants such a strong term.

What is the difference between "atrocities" and "crimes"?

"Crimes" is a general term for illegal activities. "Atrocities" refers to particularly brutal and shocking crimes, often involving violence and cruelty on a large scale. Not all crimes are "atrocities", but all "atrocities" are crimes.