columns of troops

USAGE SUMMARY

"columns of troops" is an acceptable and commonly used phrase in written English.
It typically refers to a formation of soldiers or military personnel standing in parallel lines. For example, "The general watched the columns of troops march past with pride."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

The columns of troops stretched back 25 miles.

The New York Times

Russia sent columns of troops into South Ossetia and Abkhazia, and deep into Georgian territory.

The New York Times

Many people here say they welcome the federal intervention, even if it means having columns of troops patrol their streets.

The New York Times

(July 16 , 1939 And in Berlin two months later he was unperturbed by columns of troops and other signs of war: "Lunch at the Adlon with Charlotte.

The New York Times - Arts

Russia, saying it needed to protect civilians, sent columns of troops into South Ossetia and a second breakaway region, Abkhazia, and then took positions deep in Georgian territory.

The New York Times

Keith and Allen, both of whom were well-to-do residents of Marshall, set out with two columns of troops, absorbing sniper fire and killing 12 of the raiders as they made their way into the Shelton Laurel Valley.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

Two weeks ago, the army sent a column of troops and tanks along the desert road that leads to Aleppo to try and relieve beleaguered troops there.

BBC

The next day, they spotted an incoming column of troops from the North Korean 105th Armored Division.

Wikipedia

Laverdure detached a small column of troops to take his wounded to Khénifra, remaining behind with the rest of the force.

Wikipedia

One armoured personnel carrier flying the flag of the United Arab Emirates was seen by bystanders this morning amid a column of troop carriers.

The Guardian

Columns of Taliban troops headed south overnight, abandoning the capital as fighters from the Northern Alliance entered.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing historical events or military movements, use "columns of troops" to convey the image of organized formations advancing or marching.

Common error

Avoid using "column of troops" when referring to multiple formations; "columns of troops" is more appropriate to describe several distinct groups.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "columns of troops" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object in a sentence. It describes a specific arrangement or formation of military personnel, highlighting their organized and structured appearance. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability and common usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Wiki

25%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Science

4%

Encyclopedias

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "columns of troops" is a grammatically sound and commonly used noun phrase that describes organized military formations. Ludwig AI validates its acceptability in written English. It frequently appears in news and media, as well as in historical and military contexts. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects organized military formations and avoid using the singular form when referring to multiple groups. The related phrases, writing guidance, and FAQs provide additional context and best practices for effective communication. Remember that the term evokes images of organized military strength and should be used when that is the intended message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

troop formations

Rearranges the words while keeping the core meaning about organized groups of soldiers.

formations of soldiers

Breaks down the phrase to its basic components, emphasizing the human element.

military formations

Replaces the specific term with a more general term for military arrangements.

ranks of soldiers

Highlights the hierarchical structure within the formation.

army contingents

Uses a more formal term for a specific group within an army.

lines of soldiers

Simplifies the visual aspect, focusing on linear arrangements.

military units

Replaces the imagery of columns with the more functional term of units.

regimental arrays

Focuses on the orderly display of troops in a regimental context.

advancing forces

Focuses on the movement aspect rather than the static formation.

military parades

Emphasizes the ceremonial aspect of troop formations.

FAQs

How can I use "columns of troops" in a sentence?

You can use "columns of troops" to describe the movement or arrangement of soldiers, such as: "The general inspected the "columns of troops" before the parade."

What is a synonym for "columns of troops"?

Synonyms for "columns of troops" include "military formations", "troop formations", or "army contingents", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "column of troops" when referring to multiple groups?

No, it is more accurate to use "columns of troops" when referring to multiple formations. "Column of troops" implies a single formation.

What is the difference between "columns of troops" and "ranks of soldiers"?

"Columns of troops" refers to the physical arrangement of soldiers in parallel lines, while "ranks of soldiers" highlights the hierarchical structure or order within the formation.