group of attackers

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "group of attackers" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a collective of individuals who are engaging in an attack, whether in a physical, digital, or metaphorical context. Example: "The security team was alerted to a group of attackers attempting to breach the system."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

This girl described to the Commissioners how, after they had to leave the house fearing the clashes, her brother was brutally attacked and seriously injured by a group of attackers who cut off his leg.

Huffington Post

Footage of the restaurant attack was posted online, where you can make out the group of attackers clad in all-black clothing and masks, pointing straight to the Black Bloc, but nothing has yet been confirmed.

Vice

Then this year, in May, the same group of attackers shifted their target to Israel from Palestine.

The New York Times

Al-Arabiya TV described the 10-strong group of attackers as Saudi nationals led by a man who had fought in Iraq and Syria.

The Guardian

The details of this design basis threat are classified, but the new definition specifies a larger and more capable group of attackers.

The New York Times

About 150 metres away at the vehicle entrance a second group of attackers had driven their car through one of the barriers, scattering the unarmed security guards.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

22 human-written examples

For 20 hours groups of attackers from a deadly Taliban ally, the Haqqani network, assaulted three areas of the capital.

The Economist

He said two groups of attackers were thwarted the same day, though a third succeeded in opening fire on the ceremony.

The New York Times

The same month, at least 13 people were killed and 44 injured in two episodes in Kashgar involving groups of attackers, civilians and the police, Xinhua reported.

The New York Times

Over the years, the F.B.I. and security analysts have come to describe the phenomenon as a "lone wolf" problem individual extremists or small groups of attackers operating with little coördination.

The New Yorker

Over the years, the F.B.I. and security analysts have come to describe the phenomenon as a "lone wolf" problem — individual extremists or small groups of attackers operating with little coördination.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a "group of attackers", be specific about their motives, if known, to provide a clearer understanding of the situation. For example, specify if they are insurgents, terrorists, or simply criminals.

Common error

Be wary of using "group of attackers" in a way that stereotypes or unfairly implicates an entire demographic. Always focus on the specific individuals involved in the act.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "group of attackers" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It identifies a collective of individuals engaged in an act of aggression. Ludwig examples show its common use in describing perpetrators of violence or cyber attacks.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

97%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "group of attackers" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe multiple individuals engaged in an assault or hostile action. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is most frequently used in news and media contexts with a neutral register. While synonyms like "band of assailants" or "team of aggressors" offer alternatives, it's important to choose language that accurately reflects the specific context and avoids generalizations. When using this phrase, remember to prioritize factual accuracy and avoid stereotyping any particular demographic.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

attacking force

Focuses on the active nature of the group as a unit engaged in an offensive.

band of assailants

Replaces "group" with "band" and "attackers" with the more aggressive "assailants", suggesting a more organized and violent collective.

armed gang

Highlights the presence of weapons and suggests a criminal organization.

team of aggressors

Uses "team" to imply a coordinated effort and "aggressors" to emphasize the initiation of hostile action.

hostile faction

Suggests a division or subgroup acting with animosity and antagonism.

mob of rioters

Suggests a chaotic and uncontrolled group engaged in public disturbance and violence.

offensive unit

Implies a structured group with a specific purpose of initiating attack.

squad of invaders

Implies a military or territorial violation, focusing on the act of intrusion and aggression.

party of perpetrators

A more formal and legalistic term, emphasizing the act of committing a crime or wrongdoing.

troupe of aggressors

Less common, but replaces "group" with "troupe", which can sometimes imply a performative or theatrical element to the aggression.

FAQs

How can I use "group of attackers" in a sentence?

You can use "group of attackers" to describe individuals engaged in an assault, such as: "The police are investigating a "group of attackers" who vandalized the store."

What are some synonyms for "group of attackers"?

Alternatives include "band of assailants", "team of aggressors", or "armed gang" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "group of attackers" in formal writing?

Yes, "group of attackers" is acceptable in formal writing, especially in news reports, legal documents, or academic analyses. More formal alternatives, like "party of perpetrators", exist if a more detached tone is needed.

What is the difference between "group of attackers" and "lone wolf"?

"Group of attackers" refers to multiple individuals acting together in an assault, while "lone wolf" describes an individual acting alone without direct support from a larger organization.