commit an atrocity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "commit an atrocity" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing severe acts of violence or cruelty, often in historical or political discussions. Example: "The regime was responsible for committing an atrocity that shocked the international community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

But not so much that we ever thought he would commit an atrocity like this".

Independent

Let a Jew commit an atrocity and I, too, dread the communal consequences.

Independent

But little else in Lahouaiej-Bouhlel's past indicated he would commit an atrocity on the scale of Thursday's attack.

The Guardian

A terrorist planning to commit an atrocity at a museum devoted to the horrors of terrorist atrocities might seem unduly biddable to his enemy's purpose, but then perhaps the security apparatus is itself a museum installation.

The New Yorker

One reason is that terror funds are tiny perhaps 1% of the dirty money that sloshes around the financial system because it does not cost much to commit an atrocity.

The Economist

Two months into her stay, Knox was accused and, thereafter, convicted of having used her freedom to commit an atrocity: the killing of her English roommate, Meredith Kercher, who was discovered, half-naked, with her throat slit, in their apartment.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Anytime it committed an atrocity anywhere, Muslims over here paid for it.

The Guardian - Opinion

9 P.M. (USA) COVERT AFFAIRS Annie (Piper Perabo) rushes to Copenhagen to prevent Teo (Manolo Cardona) from committing an atrocity.

The New York Times - Arts

THE last time the Dominican Republic committed an atrocity against residents of Haitian descent, the rest of the world paid little heed.

The Economist

He still receives threatening phone calls "whenever Isis commits an atrocity that is reported nationally" a year after the photo emerged, says Mr Oberholtzer.

Independent

"They [the agencies] would be more subject to criticism if someone came and committed an atrocity in this country or elsewhere who they had no knowledge of whatsoever.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "commit an atrocity" when emphasizing the deliberate and intentional nature of the violent act. The phrase suggests a conscious choice to inflict severe suffering.

Common error

Avoid using "commit an atrocity" in contexts where the severity of the action is exaggerated or the language is intended to shock rather than inform. Ensure the gravity of the term aligns with the situation being described.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "commit an atrocity" functions as a verbal phrase where "commit" is the verb and "an atrocity" is the direct object. It signifies the performance of a severe and inhumane act, indicating responsibility for a grave offense. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Wiki

10%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "commit an atrocity" is a grammatically correct and usable expression signifying the performance of a severe and inhumane act. As supported by Ludwig AI, the phrase is often found in news and media contexts, serving to condemn and emphasize the gravity of the actions being described. While not exceedingly common, it is a strong and impactful phrase best reserved for situations where the seriousness of the event warrants such language. Alternatives like "perpetrate a heinous act" or "carry out a brutal crime" can offer similar meanings with slightly different connotations. When using "commit an atrocity", ensure sensitivity and avoid sensationalism.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

perpetrate a heinous act

This alternative emphasizes the shocking and morally reprehensible nature of the act.

carry out a brutal crime

This alternative focuses on the violent and merciless aspects of the act.

engage in barbarity

This alternative highlights the uncivilized and savage character of the action.

inflict a terrible deed

This alternative centers on the act of causing suffering and harm.

be responsible for a massacre

This alternative specifically implies a large-scale killing.

enact a crime against humanity

This alternative denotes a violation of fundamental human rights on a massive scale.

execute a savage act

This alternative points to the ruthless and uncontrolled nature of the perpetration.

commit a war crime

This alternative specifically relates to violations of the laws of war.

perform a diabolical act

This alternative implies extreme wickedness and malevolence.

unleash a violent assault

This alternative underlines the sudden and forceful commencement of the action.

FAQs

How can I use "commit an atrocity" in a sentence?

You can use "commit an atrocity" to describe a severe act of violence or cruelty, such as "The soldiers were accused of "committing an atrocity" against the civilian population".

What are some alternatives to "commit an atrocity"?

Some alternatives include "perpetrate a heinous act", "carry out a brutal crime", or "enact a crime against humanity", each varying slightly in connotation.

What distinguishes "commit an atrocity" from "commit a crime"?

"Commit an atrocity" implies a particularly brutal or inhumane act, often involving widespread suffering or violation of fundamental human rights, whereas "commit a crime" is a more general term for any illegal act.

Is it appropriate to use "commit an atrocity" in informal contexts?

While grammatically correct, "commit an atrocity" is a strong phrase best reserved for formal or serious contexts where the gravity of the situation warrants such language. In informal settings, less intense vocabulary might be more suitable.