humanity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "humanity" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the human race, human nature, or the qualities that make us human, often in discussions about ethics, compassion, or social issues. Example: "In times of crisis, we must remember our shared humanity and support one another."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Although roughly three quarters of all science fiction is a dire warning of the destruction that will be wrought upon humanity by our own nut-nutted creations, humans continue to make the robot servant a reality.

The Guardian - Film

And as for caring about the decency (BNP supporters aside) and potential of individual voters, or genuinely acting to preserve and encourage their humanity.

The Guardian

I mean, humanity is just nasty and there's no silver lining".

The Guardian - Film

More likely this is a generalised – and bleak – portrait of humanity at its best and worst.

The Guardian - Arts

Above all, secularism means keeping open the possibility that there may not be satisfactory answers to difficult questions, be they scientific, political or existential, that humanity cannot help but ask.

The Guardian - Opinion

"We shall triumph over all this evil that wants to debase our humanity or obstruct our progress as a nation," he vowed.

The Guardian

The Armenians were branded as an enemy within by the Ottoman government, which used the cover of the first world war to systematically dispose of more than 1 million people, forcing great columns of humanity to march off into the Syrian desert to die of heat, starvation and disease.

The Guardian - Opinion

David Cameron said: "It's not that often in politics someone comes along with brains, talent, wit and bags of humanity.

The Guardian

"The response since Charles died has been remarkable and I think one of the reasons is that people realised that, amid his confidence and his evident political skills, there was a real humanity and vulnerability to him," Campbell said.

The Guardian

Justin Welby said foreign correspondents and war reporters were a "God-given calling to inspire others to serve our common humanity" and helped challenge people's complacency that what happened elsewhere in the world "did not matter".

The Guardian

The list of internationally approved war crimes indictments drawn up by the commission cover important modern categories of crimes, including aggression, genocide, crimes against humanity, modes of liability – including that of mid-level perpetrators - and international procedures, as well as the development of international criminal justice as a whole.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "humanity" to refer to the collective of all human beings, especially when discussing broad issues like ethics, global challenges, or shared values.

Common error

Don't attribute "humanity" as a trait to non-human entities or abstract concepts. "Humanity" defines qualities inherent to human beings, not inanimate objects or systems.

Linguistic Context

The noun "humanity" functions as a collective noun referring to all human beings as a group. Ludwig AI examples show it often appears in discussions about ethics, progress, and the human condition. It can also denote the quality of being humane.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the noun "humanity" is a versatile term that denotes the human race as a whole, the human condition, or the quality of being humane. According to Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and very common, predominantly used in news and media contexts to invoke a sense of shared identity, responsibility, or the commonality of human experience. While generally neutral in register, its use in formal writing depends on aligning with the context and tone. Consider synonyms like "humankind" or ""the human race"" depending on the intended meaning. Remember to avoid attributing "humanity" to non-human entities.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the human race

Focuses specifically on humans as a species or group.

humankind

Similar to "human race", but emphasizes the collective nature of human beings.

the human species

A more scientific and biological term for human beings.

human beings

A straightforward and literal term for people.

mankind

Traditional term for the human race, can sometimes be considered gender-exclusive.

humaneness

Emphasizes the positive qualities and virtues associated with being human, such as compassion and kindness.

human compassion

Highlights the empathetic and caring aspects of human nature.

the human spirit

Focuses on the inner strength, resilience, and creativity of human beings.

the global community

Emphasizes the interconnectedness and shared responsibility of all people.

our shared existence

Highlights the common experience of being alive and sharing the planet.

FAQs

How can I use "humanity" in a sentence?

You can use "humanity" to refer to mankind as a whole, the human condition, or the quality of being humane. For example, "The future of "the human race" depends on our ability to cooperate." or "Showing "humaneness" is essential in difficult times."

What's the difference between "humanity" and "humaneness"?

"Humanity" refers to the human race or the human condition, while "humaneness" refers to the quality of being compassionate and kind. One refers to a population, the other to the moral attribute of "human beings".

Is it appropriate to use "humanity" in formal writing?

Yes, "humanity" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when discussing ethical, social, or philosophical topics. However, ensure it aligns with the overall tone and context. Consider using alternatives such as "humankind" or ""the human race"" depending on the specific meaning you intend.

What are some synonyms for "humanity" that I can use in my writing?

Depending on the context, you can use synonyms such as "humankind", ""the human race"", ""humaneness"", or "the global community". Choose the word that best fits the specific meaning you want to convey.