lesser breeds

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lesser breeds" is grammatically correct but can be considered offensive and derogatory in certain contexts.
It can be used in discussions about social hierarchies or prejudices, but caution is advised due to its negative connotations. Example: "The author criticized the notion that some cultures are viewed as lesser breeds compared to others."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

We used to pride ourselves that sleaze was a characteristic only of "lesser breeds".

The Guardian

This was an age that refused to recognise the artistic achievements of "lesser breeds".

The Guardian - Arts

They instinctively defaulted to type, discussing Kipling's "lesser breeds without the law".

The Guardian - Opinion

French EU diplomacy has a bulldozerish quality that leaves lesser breeds both aggrieved and admiring.

The Economist

Iranians and other lesser breeds could not expect the rights we enjoyed, and it was "naive to think otherwise".

The Guardian - Opinion

And it soon inspired generations of Englishmen to bring God and team sports to "lesser breeds without the law".

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

It's this approach that has allowed Fabio Capello to survive a World Cup which would surely have sent off any lesser breed, especially the English one.

Independent

After years of being dismissed as a lesser breed of sports fan, the fantasy crowd had proved its strength in numbers: some forty million participants in North America, including eight million women.

The New Yorker

Mayhew's authors included many prominent journalists such as Bob Woodward Bob Woodward and Sally Quinn Sally Quinn, who apparently resented the inference that their books were of a lesser breed than Fitzgerald's.

Forbes

(And no, I do not believe that today's Secretaries are a lesser breed, though some may argue that point).

Huffington Post

But that is the perspective of Israelis who for long have regarded Palestinians, and Arabs in general, as a lesser breed of humankind than themselves.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing historical texts that use the phrase "lesser breeds", acknowledge its offensive nature and provide context to explain its use within that specific time period.

Common error

Avoid using the phrase "lesser breeds" in contemporary writing without explicitly addressing its problematic implications. Its uncritical use can perpetuate harmful stereotypes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lesser breeds" functions as a descriptive phrase, typically used to denote a group perceived as inferior to another. As Ludwig AI underlines, the phrase is grammatically correct but carries negative connotations. Historically, it has been used to justify social hierarchies and prejudices.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "lesser breeds" is grammatically sound but deeply problematic due to its historical association with discriminatory ideologies. Ludwig AI indicates that while grammatically correct, the phrase has strong negative connotations. Predominantly found in news, encyclopedias, and scientific sources when referring to historical contexts, its use in contemporary writing is strongly discouraged unless explicitly addressing its problematic nature. Alternatives such as "inferior groups" or "marginalized communities" offer more respectful and accurate ways to convey similar meanings without perpetuating harmful stereotypes. The phrase's historical roots in colonialism and social Darwinism make it a term to be approached with extreme caution and critical awareness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

inferior groups

Replaces "breeds" with the more general term "groups" and uses "inferior" to indicate lower status.

subordinate classes

Uses sociological terms to denote a lower rank in a social hierarchy.

lower orders

Employs a historical term for social hierarchy, suggesting a lower social standing.

underdeveloped populations

Focuses on a lack of development to imply inferiority, often used in a global context.

marginalized communities

Highlights the social exclusion and disadvantage experienced by certain groups.

less privileged groups

Emphasizes the lack of advantages and opportunities compared to others.

disadvantaged sections

Points out the unfavorable conditions and circumstances faced by specific segments of society.

secondary categories

Uses a neutral term to indicate a lower or less important classification.

minority groups

Refers to groups that are smaller in number and often face discrimination.

vulnerable populations

Highlights the susceptibility to harm or exploitation faced by certain groups.

FAQs

Is it appropriate to use the phrase "lesser breeds" in modern writing?

Using "lesser breeds" in modern writing is generally inappropriate due to its derogatory and offensive connotations. It perpetuates harmful stereotypes and reflects outdated, discriminatory views. Consider using alternative phrases that are more respectful and accurate.

What are some alternatives to "lesser breeds" that I can use instead?

Instead of "lesser breeds", consider using alternatives such as "inferior groups", "subordinate classes", or "marginalized communities". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

How did the phrase "lesser breeds" originate?

The phrase "lesser breeds" often alludes to Rudyard Kipling's poem "Recessional" and reflects a colonial-era mindset of racial and cultural superiority. Its historical usage is rooted in discriminatory ideologies.

In what contexts might I encounter the phrase "lesser breeds"?

You might encounter "lesser breeds" in historical texts, literature discussing colonialism or racism, or in analyses of historical attitudes toward different groups of people. Understanding the context is crucial to interpreting its meaning and impact.