feeding frenzy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "feeding frenzy" is considered correct and usable in written English.
You could use this phrase to describe when a large number of people compete for something. For example, "The release of the new iPhone caused a feeding frenzy, with eager customers camping out overnight for the chance to be the first to own one."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Arts

Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Feeding frenzy there wasn't.

The New York Times - Arts

Cue a media feeding frenzy.

The Guardian - Film

They're a feeding frenzy for sick people.

The Washington Post

A bona fide feeding frenzy takes place over sardines.

The New York Times - Arts

A feeding frenzy of taxi and hotel touts descended.

The Guardian - Travel

Marriage equality is a hustler's feeding frenzy of gold-diggers.

The Guardian - Film

The affair sparked a celebrity media feeding frenzy.

Independent

The feeding frenzy continues.

Forbes

A feeding frenzy ensued.

Forbes

A Social Security Feeding Frenzy?

The New York Times

There was a feeding frenzy.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "feeding frenzy" when you want to convey a sense of chaotic and intense competition for limited resources or attention. It's particularly effective in describing situations where many parties are aggressively vying for the same thing.

Common error

Avoid using "feeding frenzy" in situations where the competition is orderly or polite. The phrase implies a somewhat uncontrolled and potentially destructive scramble, so it's not suitable for describing well-regulated processes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "feeding frenzy" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. As Ludwig AI points out, this phrase describes a situation of intense competition, particularly when resources are limited.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Arts

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "feeding frenzy" is a common and vivid way to describe situations of intense, often chaotic, competition. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used. The phrase functions primarily as a noun phrase, conveying a sense of urgency and aggressive rivalry. While generally neutral in register, its slightly negative connotation should be considered in formal contexts. Alternatives like "intense scramble" or "competitive rush" might be more appropriate in certain situations. Remember that using the phrase implies an uncontrolled and potentially destructive situation, so it should be used carefully.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

heated competition

Highlights the rivalry aspect, downplaying the sense of chaos or aggression.

intense scramble

Highlights the disordered and hurried nature of the activity.

frenzied pursuit

Emphasizes the active chasing of something, removing the sense of collective chaos.

media circus

Specifically refers to the overwhelming and often sensationalized coverage by the media.

competitive rush

Focuses on the competitive aspect, omitting the chaotic or aggressive implication.

gold rush

Implies a sudden influx of people trying to acquire a valuable resource.

mad dash

Conveys a sense of urgency and recklessness.

auction fever

Describes the heightened emotions and bidding activity at an auction.

market mania

Specifically relates to economic or market situations characterized by irrational exuberance.

acquisition spree

Refers to a period of intense buying or acquiring, often in a business context.

FAQs

How can I use "feeding frenzy" in a sentence?

You can use "feeding frenzy" to describe situations with intense competition. For example: "The announcement of the scholarship created a "feeding frenzy" among students." or "The media entered a "feeding frenzy" after the celebrity scandal broke."

What's a good alternative to "feeding frenzy"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "intense scramble", "competitive rush", or "media circus".

Is it appropriate to use "feeding frenzy" in formal writing?

While "feeding frenzy" is widely understood, it carries a slightly negative connotation. In formal writing, consider more neutral alternatives like "intense competition" or "heightened demand" if the negative implication is not intended.

Can "feeding frenzy" be used in a positive context?

While rare, "feeding frenzy" can sometimes be used in a positive, albeit slightly ironic, way to describe overwhelming enthusiasm. However, be mindful of the potential for misinterpretation, as the phrase typically implies a chaotic and potentially destructive situation.