sample of humanity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sample of humanity" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a representative group or example of people, often in discussions about society or human behavior. Example: "The documentary provided a fascinating sample of humanity, showcasing diverse cultures and lifestyles from around the world."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

I simply wanted to give a representative sample of humanity, through the lens of this act.

The New Yorker

And Turkers, despite being more diverse than undergraduates, are still a pretty skewed sample of humanity.

The Economist

In time, though, when the apps move out of the research phase, they should be able to generate data that doctors really can use, and which could thus form part of someone's health record.One criticism of this approach is that iPhone users are hardly a random sample of humanity.

The Economist

Though the 50 or so diners in the back room of the Palm's West 50th Street branch in Manhattan looked like any random sample of humanity, they represented far more — in fact, they were the key figures standing between the restaurant and the couple visiting from Phoenix who want a little pretheater dinner advice, or the weary businessman just hoping for a decent, expense-account steak.

The New York Times

And the researchers have not at least, not yet—found a test, for their results were based on data from a handful of people in what may be an unrepresentative sample of humanity.But the new study also illustrates the need not to throw the baby of understanding out with the bathwater of rigour.

The Economist

The faces of a broader demographic sample of humanity in space captivated the public and inspired children with the possibility that "ordinary" people like themselves might someday make it into space.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Sartaj and Gaitonde, pursuing their separate destinies across Bombay, happen upon an extraordinarily diverse sampling of humanity — from an aspiring Muslim fashion model from provincial India who ends up as Gaitonde's mistress to a militant Maoist who turns into an armed robber.

The New Yorker

Firstly, one must review the people who nod off on public transport themselves, as entities – and they're as diverse a sample of people as any within humanity's rich tapestry.

The Guardian

But, ultimately, the series depends on the chemistry between Hank and Britt, and even more on Logue's charm, which isn't a brittle, shiny social skill (or a mystifyingly successful strategy to get girls to sleep with him, as it was in his starring role in "The Tao of Steve") but an indicator of his vulnerability and his humanity — a sample of the core of his being.

The New Yorker

"He was full of humanity.

The New York Times

But also all of humanity.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "sample of humanity", ensure the context clearly indicates what characteristics make the group representative. For example, specify if it's a demographic, cultural, or experiential sample.

Common error

Avoid drawing broad conclusions about all people based on a "sample of humanity" that isn't truly representative. Clearly define the limitations of your sample group.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sample of humanity" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject or object in a sentence. It identifies a group of individuals intended to represent all of humankind. Ludwig shows examples where it describes the composition or characteristics of a population.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "sample of humanity" is a noun phrase used to describe a group of people intended to be representative of humankind. Ludwig AI analysis confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and primarily appears in neutral to formal contexts, such as news articles and academic papers. It's used to categorize or characterize a group, suggesting findings can be generalized to the larger population. While alternative phrases like "cross-section of society" exist, "sample of humanity" offers a specific nuance implying a carefully chosen or naturally occurring representation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cross-section of society

This alternative suggests a diverse group representing different aspects of society.

representation of people

This phrase directly indicates that the group serves as a symbolic or actual representation.

segment of the population

Focuses on a specific portion of a larger group.

demographic selection

Implies a deliberate choice based on demographic characteristics.

slice of life

Offers a more figurative view, suggesting a glimpse into the everyday experiences of people.

human collective

Emphasizes the group aspect of humanity.

diverse group of individuals

Highlights the variety of people included in the group.

selection of humankind

Similar meaning but with more formal word choice.

human spectrum

This describes a range of different people.

humanity's microcosm

Emphasizes the small-scale reflection of the larger whole.

FAQs

How can I use "sample of humanity" in a sentence?

You can use "sample of humanity" to describe a group of people that is representative of the broader population. For example: "The diverse group of volunteers provided a representative "sample of humanity"."

What's a good alternative to "sample of humanity"?

Alternatives include "cross-section of society", "representation of people", or "segment of the population", depending on the context.

Is it always appropriate to use the phrase "sample of humanity"?

While grammatically correct, "sample of humanity" can sound somewhat formal. Consider your audience and the tone you wish to convey. In informal contexts, a simpler phrase might be more suitable.

What makes a group a good "sample of humanity"?

A good "sample of humanity" accurately reflects the diversity and proportions of different groups within the broader population. Factors like age, gender, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and geographic location may be important to consider.