string of people

USAGE SUMMARY

"string of people" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is usually used to refer to a line of people, typically arranged in a single file or queue, that can be seen moving or waiting together. For example, "We passed through the crowded street, watching the long string of people waiting in line outside the theater."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

"There's been a string of people abusing and misusing power from the people who elected them, and they're using it for personal gain".

The New York Times

According to a long string of people who have owned the little canine, he is at least 22 years old, possibly 24.

The New York Times

Alkhani said he had persuaded a string of people to let him plead for her release, but left the room empty-handed.

Independent

This clears the way for the prosecutor to interview a string of people from the counsel's office, in order to decide whether this was the HQ for scandal suppression.

The Economist

Tyrie looks a little unimpressed, saying that his committee have seen a string of people over the years saying that the crisis couldn't be predicted and that no-one was really at fault.

The Guardian - Business

So the doors were opened 20 minutes early, and by then, the crowd had grown to 300 and a string of people lined up outside the gymnasium and around the corner.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

What is more, few things tug at the heart strings of people of all ages more than the thought of pensioners having too little money to buy food or keep warm.

The Guardian - Opinion

There were refugees everywhere: a long, slow motion flight from the core of the city, great strings of people putting their feet on the ground, in hopes that it, unlike the sky, was safe.

The New York Times

Charities use stories because they work - they pull at the emotional heart strings of people to motivate them to give.

Huffington Post

With M Ward, Garth Hudson and members of Calexico, Los Lobos and The New Pornographers helping out, it's exquisitely realised, the arrangements sketched in earthy roots-music tones, from the skittering banjo, brushed drums and pizzicato strings of "This Tornado Loves You" to the Byrdsy electric 12-string of "People Got a Lotta Nerve".

Independent

The same was true when a string of older people were attacked in Brooklyn.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "string of people" to depict a linear arrangement or a connected series of individuals, especially when the context involves movement, sequence, or shared characteristics.

Common error

Avoid using "string of people" when referring to a dispersed or unrelated group. Opt for phrases like "group of people" or "collection of individuals" when the linearity or connection is not emphasized.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "string of people" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a sequence or line of individuals. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Social Media

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "string of people" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe a linear sequence or connected series of individuals. Ludwig AI affirms its valid usage across various contexts. It is most frequently found in news and media, as well as formal business settings. When writing, it is best to use this phrase to emphasize a linear arrangement and avoid using it for dispersed or unrelated groups. Alternative phrases such as "line of individuals" or "group of persons" may be more suitable depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

line of individuals

Emphasizes a linear arrangement more explicitly.

group of persons

A more formal and general way to refer to a set of people.

succession of individuals

Highlights the sequential nature of the people.

series of persons

Implies a set of people connected by a common characteristic or event.

procession of people

Refers to a group moving in a formal or ceremonial manner.

stream of people

Suggests a continuous flow or movement of individuals.

collection of individuals

Emphasizes the gathering or assembly of people.

sequence of persons

Highlights the order or arrangement of people.

wave of people

Suggests a sudden surge or large influx of people.

assembly of individuals

Refers to a formal gathering or meeting of people.

FAQs

How can I use "string of people" in a sentence?

You can use "string of people" to describe a line or sequence of individuals, such as "A long string of people waited outside the store."

What are some alternatives to using "string of people"?

Depending on the context, you might use alternatives like "line of individuals", "group of persons", or "succession of individuals".

Is there a difference between "string of people" and "group of people"?

"String of people" suggests a linear arrangement or sequence, while "group of people" is a more general term for any collection of individuals.

When is it appropriate to use "string of people" versus another phrase?

Use "string of people" when emphasizing the linear or sequential aspect of the individuals. Otherwise, a more general term like "group", "crowd", or "gathering" may be more suitable.