the asses

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the asses" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing donkeys or as a colloquial term for foolish people, often in a derogatory manner. Example: "The asses in the meeting couldn't see the obvious solution to the problem."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

"All the asses".

The New Yorker

No wonder all she can do is wipe the asses of cripples".

The New Yorker

He goes on to the animals: the goats, the asses, the hinds, the peacocks, the ostriches, the grasshoppers.

The New Yorker

Mr Brody's magnificently wayward and opinionated list, with its towering highbrow gestures and baffling lowbrow swoops, simply kicks the asses of all the other lists.

The Guardian - Film

I do think that serious illness (or any severe trauma) can turn people into truth-tellers and pains in the asses.

The New Yorker

The Asses differ from the "Jackass" movie in that they have never promoted jumping head first into the blades of a moving ceiling fan.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

11 human-written examples

Most verbal bullies are cowards as well as pain-in-the-asses.

WikiHow

"It's a pain in the ass".

The New Yorker

"Yes, the ass is quite heavy".

The New Yorker

"Maybe we could redo the ass".

The New Yorker

ALB: You mean the ass?

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the asses" to refer to people, be mindful of your audience and the potential for offense. Consider alternatives like "the fools" or "the idiots" if a more neutral tone is desired.

Common error

Avoid using "the asses" in formal or professional contexts where its negative connotation could be misconstrued or considered inappropriate. Opt for less abrasive alternatives.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the asses" primarily functions as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It can refer literally to multiple donkeys, or colloquially as a derogatory term for foolish people, aligning with Ludwig's / Ludwig AI examples of usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the asses" is a noun phrase with two primary meanings: a literal reference to multiple donkeys and a derogatory term for foolish people. The Ludwig / Ludwig AI analysis indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used, particularly in news and media, although care should be taken due to its potential to offend. While related terms like "the fools" or "the idiots" can serve as safer alternatives in professional contexts, understanding the nuances of its connotation is key to effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the donkeys

Replaces "asses" with a direct synonym referring to the animal.

the fools

Substitutes "asses" with a common term for foolish people.

the idiots

Replaces "asses" with another synonym for foolish or unintelligent individuals.

the morons

Similar to "fools" and "idiots", this term implies a lack of intelligence.

the imbeciles

A more formal term for someone lacking intelligence or being foolish.

the blockheads

An informal and somewhat humorous term for someone stupid.

the nincompoops

A lighthearted term for silly or foolish people.

the buffoons

Describes individuals who are ridiculous or clownish.

the dolts

A less common word for a dull or stupid person.

the simpletons

Refers to people who are naive or easily fooled.

FAQs

When is it appropriate to use "the asses"?

The phrase "the asses" is appropriate in informal contexts or when referring to the animal. However, its use as a derogatory term for people can be offensive and should be avoided in formal or professional settings.

What are some less offensive alternatives to using "the asses" to describe someone?

Instead of "the asses", consider using terms like "the fools", "the idiots", or "the morons", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey and the level of formality required.

Can "the asses" refer to anything other than people?

Yes, "the asses" can refer to multiple donkeys or animals of the Equus asinus species. The context of the sentence will usually make it clear whether you're talking about animals or using the term in a derogatory way.

How has the usage of "the asses" evolved over time?

The term "ass" has been used to describe donkeys for centuries. Its derogatory meaning, referring to a foolish or stubborn person, has also been around for a considerable time. The phrase "the asses" simply pluralizes both meanings, maintaining the same historical context.