huddled masses

USAGE SUMMARY

'huddled masses' is a correct and usable term in written English.
You can use it to refer to a group of people who have gathered together in a usually confined space, or who are close together and united in a shared experience. For example: "The refugees huddled together, forming masses in the small boat as they crossed the Mediterranean Sea."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

-- those "huddled masses yearning to breathe free".

The New York Times

The "huddled masses" have headed for the Statue of Liberty, not the Forbidden City.

The New York Times

Don't give us your tired or your poor or you huddled masses yearning to breathe free.

BBC

CHESTER eo art lab "Huddled Masses," paintings by Charlie Goodwin.

The New York Times

HUDDLED MASSES Complimentary official event program (depending on supply at conclusion of event).

The New Yorker

The poor huddled masses are left behind.

University of California, Berkeley

Now the Lebanese resent the huddled masses from the east.

Independent

But they weren't enough for America's huddled masses.

The Economist

The "huddled masses" image is unforgettably visual and narrative.

The Guardian - Books

The huddled masses have never been in greater need.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Send me your huddled masses yearning to breathe free, sure.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "huddled masses", ensure the context aligns with its historical and emotional connotations of immigration, hope, and hardship. It's most effective when referring to large groups of people seeking a better life.

Common error

Avoid using "huddled masses" in contexts that simply describe a crowd or gathering without the element of immigration, displacement, or shared hardship. The phrase carries a specific historical and emotional weight.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "huddled masses" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable status, especially when referring to groups seeking refuge. Its use evokes the historical context of immigration and the Statue of Liberty.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Academia

8%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Reference

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "huddled masses" is a well-established noun phrase, originating from Emma Lazarus's poem at the base of the Statue of Liberty. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, especially in contexts relating to immigration and refuge. Predominantly found in news and media, its purpose is to evoke empathy and remind audiences of the welcoming spirit traditionally associated with the United States. While generally neutral in register, it carries emotional weight due to its historical and literary significance. Remember to use it appropriately, understanding its connection to immigration history. Alternatives like "teeming multitudes" or "displaced populations" may be suitable depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

yearning migrants

Emphasizes the desire and motivation behind migration, similar to the original context of "huddled masses".

refugee communities

Highlights the status of people seeking refuge, emphasizing their shared experience and support networks.

displaced populations

Specifically refers to people who have been forced to leave their homes, often due to conflict or disaster.

vulnerable migrants

Highlights migrants' fragility and their need for protection.

teeming multitudes

Emphasizes a large number of people, often suggesting a sense of overcrowding or abundance.

disadvantaged immigrants

Highlights the economic and social challenges faced by some immigrants.

immigrant groups

Focuses on people who have moved to a new country, without necessarily implying distress.

aspiring newcomers

Focuses on the hope and ambition of those arriving in a new country.

oppressed peoples

Highlights the experience of being subject to unjust treatment or control.

the dispossessed

General term for people who have been deprived of their possessions or rights, often including those seeking refuge.

FAQs

How can I use "huddled masses" in a sentence?

The phrase "huddled masses" is typically used to describe large groups of immigrants or refugees seeking a better life. For example: "The Statue of Liberty welcomed the "huddled masses" to American shores."

What is the origin of the phrase "huddled masses"?

The phrase "huddled masses" comes from Emma Lazarus's poem 'The New Colossus', which is inscribed on a plaque at the base of the Statue of Liberty. The poem speaks of welcoming immigrants to the United States.

Are there alternative phrases I can use instead of "huddled masses"?

Yes, depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "teeming multitudes", "displaced populations", or "refugee communities".

Is it appropriate to use "huddled masses" in a modern context?

Yes, "huddled masses" can be used in modern contexts when referring to immigrants, refugees, or displaced people seeking refuge or a better life. However, it's important to use the phrase respectfully and with an understanding of its historical and emotional significance.