mass of remembrance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "mass of remembrance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a gathering or event held in honor of someone who has passed away, often to remember and celebrate their life. Example: "The community came together for a mass of remembrance to honor the contributions of their beloved leader."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Also, Mass of remembrance and peace.

The New York Times

Eventually, this mass of remembrance was sifted down to 100 testimonies that were read out in the Town Hall in May.

The Guardian

This morning, that fragment will be taken to St. Peter's Roman Catholic Church on Barclay Street for a Mass of remembrance for those killed in the 1993 bombing.

The New York Times

New Jersey BERNARDSVILLE St. Bernard's Episcopal Church (88 Claremont Road), 7 30 p.m.; community Mass of remembrance with the Antioch Choral Ensemble of New York City.

The New York Times

At a Mass of remembrance at St. Peter's Roman Catholic Church, a broken slab of the rose granite circle -- engraved with John, for John DiGiovanni, a victim -- was displayed in a polished wooden box.

The New York Times

But the day was tinged with sadness too, they said, as the family of slain American journalist James Foley gathered for a Mass of remembrance in his hometown of Rochester, N.H., grieving the son who was killed by a more radical group in the same region.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

People across the UK are being asked to switch off their lights between 22 00 BST and 23:00 BST on Monday and to light candles in a mass act of remembrance.

BBC

Lights out to mark WW1 Jump to media player People across the UK are being asked to switch off their lights between 22 00 BST and 23:00 BST on Monday and to light candles in a mass act of remembrance.

BBC

One might argue it's a relief that media outlets declined to jump to conclusions about or make false connections between the dark day of remembrance and the mass shootings that came with it.

Vice

The ceremony is the beginning of a mass global remembrance, which will continue for the next hundred days.

Huffington Post

The memorial is a place of remembrance and learning for Rwandans and international visitors, built on the mass graves of 250,000 people killed there.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "mass of remembrance", ensure the context clearly indicates a gathering or service intended to honor and remember someone or something significant. This phrase is most appropriate in formal or semi-formal settings, such as memorial events or commemorative services.

Common error

Avoid using "mass of remembrance" in casual contexts. The phrase carries a solemn and respectful tone, so using it inappropriately can diminish its intended impact and may seem insensitive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "mass of remembrance" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject or object in a sentence. It refers to a specific event or gathering held to honor and remember someone or something. Ludwig provides several examples in news and media contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "mass of remembrance" is a noun phrase used to describe a formal gathering to honor and remember someone or something. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and most commonly found in news and media contexts, indicating a neutral to formal register. Its purpose is to acknowledge and commemorate, expressing collective memory and respect. Alternative phrases include "memorial service" or "remembrance ceremony". While the phrase is well-established, it's important to use it in appropriate, respectful contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

memorial service

Replaces "mass" with "service", offering a less religious but equally formal alternative.

remembrance ceremony

Substitutes "mass" with "ceremony", providing a more secular option for commemoration.

commemoration event

Uses "event" instead of "mass", broadening the context to include various types of memorial gatherings.

tribute gathering

Replaces "remembrance" with "tribute", shifting the focus to honoring the achievements or qualities of someone.

memorial mass

Swaps the order of the words, which changes the emphasis slightly but maintains the core meaning.

act of commemoration

Focuses on the action of commemorating, rather than a specific event.

day of remembrance

Emphasizes the day dedicated to remembering, rather than a specific mass or event.

gathering in memory

Highlights the purpose of gathering—to remember someone who has passed away.

service of commemoration

Combines elements, using service instead of mass and using commemoration.

homage ceremony

Focuses on paying respect and honor, often to someone of great importance.

FAQs

What is a "mass of remembrance"?

A "mass of remembrance" is a gathering or service held to honor and remember someone or something significant, often involving religious or formal elements. It is a way to collectively commemorate and pay tribute.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "mass of remembrance"?

The phrase "mass of remembrance" is most suitable in formal contexts, such as memorial events, commemorative services, or when reporting on such events in news or media. It conveys respect and solemnity.

What are some alternatives to "mass of remembrance"?

Alternatives include "memorial service", "remembrance ceremony", or "commemoration event", depending on the specific context and level of formality required.

How does a "mass of remembrance" differ from a simple memorial?

While both serve to honor the deceased, a "mass of remembrance" typically implies a more structured, often religiously affiliated service. A general memorial might be less formal and more personalized.