bunch of loons

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "bunch of loons" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used informally to describe a group of people who are perceived as silly, eccentric, or crazy. Example: "I can't believe those guys are planning to jump off the roof into the pool; they're a real bunch of loons."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

As Nick Ayer put it, St. Aubyn would be "disinherited for a bunch of loons — for her cat, almost".

The New Yorker

But it was his typecast of the tea party as a bunch of loons that was far more eye catching.

Huffington Post

America's definition covers the very particular bunch of loons headquartered in Raqqa, flying the black flag, and making a mess of Syria and Iraq.

Vice

Others warn that, because of the political implications of the Brexit vote, many foreign investors won't invest in Britain even if it's cheaper, because they're afraid our country is a shitshow run by a bunch of loons who will soon find it impossible to secure decent trade deals.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

This juxtaposition made me survey the crowd with a greater skepticism than I might have had this very same bunch of techno loons been gathered in Berlin (or even downtown LA).

Vice

A bunch of idiots are looning about the shores of Loch Ness and one of them, a smack head, gets bitten by something in the waters of Loch Ness and later starts metamorphosing into a monster in Glasgow.

BBC

But have one insane kid shoot a bunch of children and the gun-hating loons once again try to deny fellow citizens their Constitutional rights.

Los Angeles Times

Attesting to the opinionated tone of much television coverage, Fox hosts and guests have described the protesters as a "group of nuts and lunatics and fascists" (Karl Rove), "demonic loons" (Ann Coulter) and "a bunch of wusses" (Greg Gutfeld).

The New York Times

[LOON TREMOLO CALLS] But all is not peaceful in the world of loons.

Cornell University

Through the open windows we heard the calling of loons.

The New York Times

Instead, visitors encounter lots of loons, deer and moose.

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience and the potential for offense. While the phrase is relatively mild, it can be perceived as disrespectful or dismissive, especially when directed at individuals or groups with strongly held beliefs.

Common error

Avoid using "bunch of loons" in formal or professional settings where a more neutral or respectful tone is required. Opt for alternatives like "unconventional group" or "eccentric individuals" to maintain professionalism.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bunch of loons" functions as a noun phrase, specifically a collective noun phrase, used to describe a group of people. It often carries a pejorative or humorous connotation, implying that the group is acting foolishly or irrationally. Ludwig confirms its typical informal use.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "bunch of loons" is an informal noun phrase used to describe a group of people perceived as foolish, eccentric, or irrational. Ludwig confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English, though it is best suited for informal contexts. While the phrase appears primarily in news and media sources, it's crucial to consider the audience and context to avoid causing offense. Alternatives like "group of eccentrics" or "pack of fools" might be more appropriate in certain situations. Understanding its nuance and register is essential for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

group of eccentrics

Emphasizes the unconventional or peculiar nature of the group.

collection of oddballs

Highlights the unusual or quirky characteristics of the individuals.

pack of fools

Implies a lack of intelligence or good judgment within the group.

crowd of crazies

Focuses on the potentially irrational or unstable behavior of the group.

set of weirdos

Draws attention to the strange or atypical nature of the individuals.

band of nutcases

Suggests a more extreme level of eccentricity or mental instability.

assemblage of zanies

Emphasizes the comical or clownish behavior of the group.

flock of crackpots

Implies that the group holds unconventional or unfounded beliefs.

cohort of dingbats

Suggests a lack of intelligence or common sense among the individuals.

cluster of screwballs

Highlights the unpredictable or erratic behavior of the group.

FAQs

What does the expression "bunch of loons" mean?

The expression "bunch of loons" is an informal way to describe a group of people who are perceived as silly, eccentric, or crazy. It's often used in a humorous or slightly dismissive way.

What can I say instead of "bunch of loons"?

You can use alternatives like "group of eccentrics", "pack of fools", or "crowd of crazies" depending on the context and the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use the phrase "bunch of loons" in formal writing?

No, the phrase "bunch of loons" is generally considered informal and should be avoided in formal writing. It's more suitable for casual conversations or informal contexts.

What is the origin of the phrase "bunch of loons"?

The phrase combines the common expression "bunch of", used to describe a group of things or people, with "loons", which refers to people considered crazy or foolish. The term "loon" itself has historical associations with madness and eccentricity.