gentlemen

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "gentlemen" is correct in written English.
It is typically used to address or refer to a group of men, often in formal or polite contexts. Example: "Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for joining us this evening."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The Bike Stop has the grungy decor you would expect, and serves cheap beer in big mugs to leather-clad gentlemen.

The Guardian - Travel

Most of the rest came from small shareholders with addresses in southern England: from bankers, barristers, spinsters, retired army officers and people known simply as "gentlemen".

The Guardian - Opinion

(Teddy Kollek, a long-term mayor of Jerusalem, was reported in the 1980s to have told a group of clerics who were hectoring him about access to the holy sites: "Gentlemen, gentlemen! Spare me your sermons and I will fix your sewers!") The US government closed twice in the last several years, and few ordinary citizens even noticed.

The Guardian

Success would mean the beginning of the end of these gentlemen who have forgotten what democracy means and the principles upon which a united Europe was founded".

The Guardian

Some gentlemen are watching Liverpool-Man U on a laptop.

The Guardian

Here, you can ride the escalators, take snaps and engage the wardrobe-shouldered gentlemen in conversations about architecture.

The Guardian - Arts

gentlemen have brought with them as a boon from the nether world is rejected with fervent contempt by the fairy inhabitants of "the Happy Land".

The Guardian

For women there is more to do with things like knitting groups, but for gentlemen there is nowhere to go".

The Guardian

Walter counts himself part of the village community, but – appropriately for a book that is all about power and belonging and ownership – will find himself alienated from gentlemen and labourers alike when the timeless certainties of village life are overturned.

The Guardian - Books

"Ladies and gentlemen, if we shout loud enough he might just hear us in hospital," he added, as the crowd broke into the most deafening roar of the evening, then chanted "Philip, Philip, Philip" as the Queen was visibly moved.

The Guardian - Music

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

We must determine which of us shall die to furnish food for the rest!' "MR. JOHN J. WILLIAMS of Illinois rose and said: 'Gentlemen--I nominate the Rev. James Sawyer of Tennessee.' "MR. Wm.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "gentlemen" in formal correspondence or speeches, ensure it aligns with the overall tone and context. Consider the audience and whether a more inclusive term might be appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "gentlemen" in casual settings or when addressing a mixed-gender group. Using a more inclusive term like "everyone" or "colleagues" can prevent unintended exclusion or perceived bias.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "gentlemen" is as a plural noun, typically used for addressing or referring to a group of men. As Ludwig AI indicates, this usage is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

30%

Science

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "gentlemen" functions as a plural noun, primarily used to address or refer to a group of men in formal contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. While "gentlemen" conveys respect and formality, it's essential to consider more inclusive alternatives when addressing mixed-gender groups. Usage analysis reveals its frequent presence in news and media, as well as formal business contexts. Though still common, its frequency is tempered by the rise of more inclusive language. Remember to be mindful of your audience and the overall tone when deciding whether to use the word "gentlemen".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sirs

A formal term of address for a group of men, often used in written correspondence or formal settings.

men

A general term for a group of males, less formal than "gentlemen".

fellows

An informal term for a group of men, often implying camaraderie or friendship.

lads

A colloquial term for a group of young men or boys, primarily British English.

guys

A very common informal term for a group of people, often used regardless of gender.

gentlepersons

A gender-neutral alternative to "gentlemen", inclusive of all genders.

esteemed colleagues

A formal and respectful way to address a group of male coworkers or professionals.

honorable men

A respectful and dignified way to address a group of men, implying high moral character.

members of the audience

A neutral way to address a mixed-gender audience, including men.

respected individuals

A formal and respectful way to acknowledge a group of men.

FAQs

How can I use "gentlemen" in a sentence?

You can use "gentlemen" to address a group of men formally, such as in the phrase "Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for your attention." It can also be used to refer to men of a certain social status or character.

What's a more inclusive alternative to "gentlemen"?

If you're addressing a mixed-gender group, consider using more inclusive terms like "everyone", "colleagues", or "esteemed guests".

When is it appropriate to use "gentlemen"?

It is appropriate in formal settings where the audience is known to be exclusively male, or when referring to men of high social standing. Always consider your audience to ensure the term is well-received.

Is "gentlemen" still a commonly used term?

While still used, "gentlemen" is becoming less common in favor of more inclusive language. Its frequency varies depending on the context and audience, with formal settings more likely to use it than casual ones.