lesser humans

USAGE SUMMARY

"lesser humans" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You might use it when comparing people or groups of people to some other standard of greatness, as in, " The great leaders of history stood on the shoulders of lesser humans who cleared the path for them."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

I want these lesser humans gone".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It was the consequence of lesser humans realising that they have nobody but themselves to rely on to escape their hopeless lives and subhuman working and living conditions.

The Guardian

Their relationship – passionate but knowing, and somehow above the concerns of lesser humans – has echoes of Rhett and Scarlett (see below), and is bracketed by a haunting fragment of historical truth.

The Guardian - Books

Lady Bird is remarkable for the range and depths of her loves fierce loyalties as well as small delights and for a physical and spir itual stamina which bore her through ordeals which would have drained lesser humans.

The New York Times

They're smarter than they let on, and they like to mess with us lesser humans.

TechCrunch

When such theories have allowed 'male' to stand in for 'human' whether by defining the human in terms of characteristics associated specifically with men, or constructing the male as the paradigm of the species, or by simply conflating the two linguistically by use of the male generic they have necessarily rendered women as lesser humans.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

Throughout history political strategies have divided humanity into the fully human, the lesser human and the inhuman; for the Greeks the barbarians, for the Christians the heathen, for the nationalists the foreigners, for the colonialists the uncivilised.

The Guardian

Too often people's basic human rights were abused and they were treated like lesser human beings.

The Guardian

A lesser human being would have skewered these monsters in his writings, but Sebastian is of an altogether higher order.

The Guardian - Books

They treat us like lesser human beings and blame us for the way we are forced to live.

The Guardian

His stance continues to send a damaging message that gay people are second-class citizens and lesser human beings.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "lesser humans" cautiously and be aware of its potential to offend, as it implies a hierarchy of human value. Consider alternative phrasing depending on your audience and purpose.

Common error

Avoid using the phrase "lesser humans" in formal or academic writing without careful consideration. Its subjective and potentially derogatory nature can undermine your credibility. Opt for more neutral language like "disadvantaged groups" or "marginalized individuals" depending on your context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lesser humans" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where the adjective "lesser" modifies the noun "humans". It is used to describe or categorize individuals or groups perceived as inferior. Ludwig AI confirms its usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

12%

Less common in

Wiki

13%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "lesser humans" is a noun phrase used to denote individuals or groups considered inferior, as highlighted by Ludwig. While grammatically correct, it carries a highly sensitive and potentially offensive connotation. Ludwig AI underlines its function in historical, sociological, and ethical discussions. The phrase is not common in contemporary discourse, but its potential to offend and its historical usage warrants cautious use, favoring neutral terms when alternatives are available. Its relatively more frequent appearance in news and media reflects its use in reporting or analyzing contexts where such dehumanizing language is employed or discussed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

inferior individuals

Focuses on inherent inferiority rather than a comparative assessment.

subordinate people

Emphasizes a hierarchical relationship of lower rank or position.

second-class citizens

Highlights unequal rights and treatment within a society.

devalued persons

Stresses the lack of worth or importance attributed to individuals.

marginalized groups

Points to social exclusion and being pushed to the fringes of society.

underprivileged people

Refers to a lack of advantages and opportunities due to social or economic factors.

oppressed individuals

Highlights the experience of being subjected to unjust treatment and control.

less fortunate beings

A softer, more empathetic way of describing those in a disadvantaged position.

disenfranchised citizens

Focuses on the denial of rights and power, particularly in a political context.

vulnerable populations

Emphasizes susceptibility to harm and lack of protection.

FAQs

How can I use "lesser humans" in a sentence?

You might use "lesser humans" to describe how certain groups have been historically perceived, as in: "Throughout history, political strategies have divided humanity into the fully human, the "lesser human" and the inhuman."

What's a less offensive way to say "lesser humans"?

Consider alternatives like "disadvantaged groups", "marginalized individuals", or "vulnerable populations" depending on the specific context. These phrases avoid the implication of inherent inferiority.

What is the connotation of the term "lesser humans"?

The term "lesser humans" carries a strong negative connotation, implying that certain individuals or groups are inherently inferior or less valuable than others. It is often used in contexts of discrimination, oppression, or dehumanization.

Is it appropriate to use "lesser humans" in academic writing?

Generally, no. While you might encounter the term when analyzing historical texts or discussing ideologies that promote inequality, it's best to use more neutral and objective language in your own analysis, such as "subordinate people" or "marginalized groups".