formed a tribe

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "formed a tribe" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing the act of creating or establishing a group of people who share common interests, beliefs, or characteristics. Example: "Over the years, they formed a tribe of like-minded individuals who supported each other in their creative endeavors."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Several villages or hamlets formed a tribe, and groups of tribes sometimes organized into powerful confederacies.

Britannica

Writers formed a tribe of their own and regarded the others from a position outside the common hierarchy.

The New Yorker

The book contends that the Mashantucket Pequots only formed a tribe in 1975 when organizers were presented with the opportunity to file a lawsuit over reservation land claims.

The New York Times

The bands in such a marital exchange system formed a tribe, taking human society to a level of organization beyond that of chimpanzee society.

The New York Times - Science

Phife Dawg formed A Tribe Called Quest in the late 1980s in New York with his childhood friend Q-Tip.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Shapiro gave us the following instructions: "You and the other members of your group have a unique opportunity to form a tribe.

The New York Times - Magazine

Tisci also succeeded in forming a "tribe," a term W used to describe the high-profile personalities with whom he socialized and gave his clothes.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Eventually, you emerge from the water onto the second level — dry land — and your creature must compete with other creatures, and mate with those of your own kind which the computer generates, until you form a tribe.

The New Yorker

It's great storytelling and it drives the audience to form a tribe and connect with others around the show because they are all at roughly the same stage.

Huffington Post

Throughout classical antiquity, the ancient Britons formed a series of tribes, cultures and identities in Great Britain; the Dumnonii and Cornovii were the Celtic tribes who inhabited what was to become Cornwall during the Iron Age, Roman and post-Roman periods.

Wikipedia

Throughout classical antiquity the Celts spoke Celtic languages, and formed a series of tribes, cultures and identities, notably the Picts and Gaels in the north and the Britons in the south.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "formed a tribe", ensure that the context aligns with the traditional meaning of a tribe as a group with shared ancestry, culture, or interests. Consider whether "community", "group", or "association" might be more appropriate depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Common error

Avoid using "formed a tribe" when describing temporary or superficial gatherings. This phrase carries implications of deep connection and enduring relationships, so choose a more fitting descriptor for fleeting groups or casual acquaintances. "Grouped together" or "gathered" might be more suitable in such contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "formed a tribe" functions as a verb phrase, describing the action of creating or establishing a group with shared characteristics, interests, or ancestry. Ludwig confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

40%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "formed a tribe" effectively describes the creation of a group sharing common ancestry, interests, or characteristics. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is correct and usable in written English. While its frequency is rare, it appears across diverse sources like news, encyclopedias, and online wikis. When choosing this phrase, consider if alternative options such as "established a community" or "created a group" might better fit the context. Pay attention to the connotations of "tribe" and use it when referencing groups with a more cultural or historical perspective.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

organized themselves into a clan

Similar to a tribe, but emphasizes kinship and ancestry, which is a subtle difference.

forged a brotherhood

Suggests a strong emotional bond and shared identity among the members, often based on shared experiences or values.

established a community

Focuses on the creation of a community, which implies a broader social structure than a tribe.

created a group

A more generic term for forming a collection of individuals, lacking the specific cultural or ancestral connotations of a tribe.

banded together

Suggests a more informal and often temporary alliance or grouping.

united into a federation

Implies a formal agreement and political structure, unlike the more organic formation of a tribe.

coalesced into a union

Highlights the merging or blending of separate entities into a single body.

assembled into a league

Focuses on a voluntary association of independent groups for a common purpose.

constituted an alliance

Emphasizes a partnership formed for mutual benefit or protection, often temporary.

developed a fellowship

Indicates a group based on shared interests, activities, or a common profession.

FAQs

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

You can use "formed a tribe" to describe the creation of a social group with common interests, ancestry, or goals. For example, "The settlers "formed a tribe" to protect themselves from outside threats."

What can I say instead of "formed a tribe"?

You can use alternatives like "established a community", "created a group", or "organized themselves into a clan", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "formed a tribe" in a business context?

While "formed a tribe" is generally used in social or historical contexts, you can use it metaphorically in a business setting to describe a strong team or cohesive group. However, be mindful of the cultural implications and ensure it's used sensitively. A better alternative in most professional settings might be "built a team" or "established a department".

What's the difference between "formed a tribe" and "formed a community"?

"Formed a tribe" typically implies a group with shared ancestry, culture, or deep-rooted interests, while "formed a community" suggests a broader social structure based on shared location, goals, or values. A community can be more inclusive and less exclusive than a tribe.