corps of discovery

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "corps of discovery" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a group or organization that is tasked with exploration or research, often in a historical or scientific context. Example: "The corps of discovery embarked on their journey to map the uncharted territories of the West."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

The corps of discovery failed at its basic mission: to find an all-water route across the continent.

The New York Times

NEARLY two centuries ago, Lewis and Clark hiked with their Corps of Discovery through the mountains of northern Idaho.

The Economist

When members of the corps of discovery first walked up to the bluff at Cape Disappointment, there was finally a sense of triumph.

The New York Times

In it he sought a $2,500 authorization to dispatch a Corps of Discovery up the Missouri River to seek a passage to the Pacific.

The New York Times - Books

In May of 1804, Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, together with their Corps of Discovery, set off from St . Louison America's first official cross-country expedition.

The New Yorker

For much of the journey, their Corps of Discovery trod Indian trails, followed Indian maps and were led by Indian guides.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

"That moment of discovery".

The New York Times

Process of discovery.

The New Yorker

They were terrified of discovery.

The New York Times

A year of discovery.

BBC

Of discovery.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about historical explorations, use "corps of discovery" to evoke a sense of organized, purposeful exploration, particularly when referencing expeditions with governmental or scientific backing.

Common error

Avoid using "corps of discovery" to describe casual or informal explorations. The phrase implies a structured, often government-sponsored, expedition rather than recreational travel.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "corps of discovery" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig examples illustrate its use to describe a group undertaking an exploratory mission, often with governmental or scientific backing.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Academia

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "corps of discovery" is a grammatically sound noun phrase used to describe a group organized for exploration, often with a scientific or governmental purpose. Ludwig AI confirms that it is correct and usable in written English. Its frequency is classified as common, with usage primarily in News & Media, Science, and Academia. While alternatives exist, the phrase carries a specific connotation of structured, purposeful exploration. Ludwig's examples highlight its historical significance, particularly in reference to the Lewis and Clark Expedition, but also its applicability to modern organized exploration efforts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Lewis and Clark Expedition

Refers specifically to the historical expedition led by Meriwether Lewis and William Clark.

exploratory expedition

Broader term that encompasses any expedition focused on exploration.

scientific exploration team

Emphasizes the scientific nature of the exploration.

pioneering exploration group

Highlights the innovative and groundbreaking aspect of the expedition.

discovery team

A group of people whose primary goal is discovering previously unknown things

research expedition

Highlights the research-oriented nature of the journey.

exploring party

A group of people exploring a new place.

mapping expedition

Emphasizes the mapping aspect of the journey.

survey team

Focuses on surveying and gathering data.

exploration unit

A general term referring to a team of explorers.

FAQs

How is the phrase "corps of discovery" typically used?

The phrase "corps of discovery" is used to describe a group organized for exploration, often with a scientific or governmental purpose. Examples show its use in historical contexts, like the Lewis and Clark Expedition.

What's a good alternative to "corps of discovery"?

Depending on the specific context, you could use alternatives such as "exploratory expedition", "scientific exploration team", or simply "exploration team".

Is "corps of discovery" only used in historical contexts?

While often used in historical contexts, "corps of discovery" can also be used to describe modern-day exploration efforts, particularly those with a structured or scientific aim. Its use emphasizes the organized nature of the exploration.

What distinguishes a "corps of discovery" from a regular group of travelers?

A "corps of discovery" implies a structured, purposeful group with specific objectives, often scientific or governmental. A regular group of travelers may simply be exploring for leisure, without the same level of organization or specific goals. In this sense, a "mapping expedition" is more similar.