formed a clique

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "formed a clique" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a group of people who come together and share common interests, often excluding others. Example: "During the school year, several students formed a clique that spent all their time together, leaving others feeling left out."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

With Konrad Lueg, they formed a clique.

The New York Times - Magazine

Fans formed a clique around the band's idiosyncrasies -- fashion-wise, a rumpled boarding school chic -- with Mr. Malkmus's lyrics the code for them to crack.

The New York Times - Arts

They formed a clique, of a loose and almost inevitably theatre-based kind, meeting in a parodic club, the Sublime Society of Beefsteaks, in the painting room at Covent Garden Theatre.

The Guardian - Arts

In retaliation, Marguerite Louise threatened to kill her with a hatchet and a pistol, and formed a clique against her.

Wikipedia

But all of the six male lawyers who were elected with me formed a clique to which I was not invited.

Huffington Post

All identified key positions formed a clique within the MI graph of interest.

Plosone

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

(They form a clique called Super Best Friends).

The New York Times - Arts

Plus, there's "a bit of animosity between the fast streamers and the rest of the civil service" because they form a clique.

The Guardian

"A wannabe will usually try to form a clique within your organization, a small group of people who band together against you," wrote Mr. Hendon, a Democrat who besides a life in politics also fancies himself a musician-filmmaker.

The New York Times

As a result, any k nodes can potentially form a clique.

Journal of Internet Services and Applications

Since head and true knees form a clique, each false shoulder is a simplicial vertex that can be removed.

Journal of the Brazilian Computer Society

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Be mindful of the social context when using this phrase. It can carry negative connotations, so choose it carefully to avoid unintended implications.

Common error

Avoid using "formed a clique" when describing positive or inclusive group formations. The phrase often carries negative implications of exclusivity and exclusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "formed a clique" functions as a verb phrase, specifically as a transitive verb followed by a noun phrase. It describes the action of creating an exclusive group. Ludwig AI confirms the grammatical correctness and usability of this phrase.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "formed a clique" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe the creation of an exclusive group. While Ludwig confirms its correctness, it's important to be mindful of the negative connotations it often carries. The phrase is most commonly found in news media and scientific contexts. When writing, consider whether a more neutral term like "close-knit group" might be more appropriate depending on the desired tone and audience. Always strive for clear and unbiased communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

developed a close-knit group

Focuses on the strong bonds and intimacy within the group.

established a coterie

Emphasizes a small, exclusive group, often with shared artistic or intellectual interests.

assembled an inner circle

Highlights the hierarchical structure and exclusivity of the group.

gathered a close set of allies

Highlights the strategic and supportive nature of the group's relationships.

created a faction

Highlights the potential for division or conflict within a larger group.

cultivated a tight-knit community

Emphasizes the positive aspects of the group's relationships and shared values.

built a cabal

Implies secrecy and potentially subversive intentions within the group.

fostered a small society

Implies the group shares a high degree of common purpose.

organized a circle

Suggests a more informal and less exclusive group.

initiated a fraternity

Suggests shared interests and a sense of brotherhood.

FAQs

How can I use "formed a clique" in a sentence?

You can use "formed a clique" to describe a group of people who have come together, often excluding others. For example: "The popular students /s/established+a+coterie formed a clique and dominated the social scene."

What's a less negative way to describe a group forming?

Instead of "formed a clique", which can sound exclusive, consider more neutral phrases like "developed a close-knit group" or "organized a circle", depending on the context.

Is "formed a clique" grammatically correct?

Yes, "formed a clique" is grammatically correct. "Formed" is the past tense of "form", and "clique" is a noun referring to a small, exclusive group.

What is the difference between "formed a clique" and "formed a team"?

"Formed a clique" implies a close-knit group, sometimes with negative connotations of exclusivity. "Formed a team", on the other hand, suggests a group working together towards a common goal, usually with a more positive connotation.