the harlots

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the harlots" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing historical, literary, or social topics related to prostitution or promiscuity. Example: "In ancient literature, the harlots often symbolize temptation and moral decay."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

"Go naked like the harlots you are!" she screams.

The New Yorker

"When the verdict was announced the harlots in the street outside danced upon the pavement," Yeats wrote.

The New Yorker

She considered herself at the time to be in training "for inclusion among the harlots of history".

The New York Times - Books

The Harlots were their usual cheerfully silly selves as performed by Erica Cornejo and Sandra Brown (both performances), Erica Fischbach (Friday) and Tamara Barden (Saturday).

The New York Times - Arts

Leave the harlots still to sing Comic songs about the Hun, Leave the fat old men to say Now we've got them on the run.

The Guardian - Books

Two tarty women frequent the piazza, but unlike the harlots in Kenneth MacMillan's familiar version, they're a fluent part of the social unit; there's no drastic dichotomy between them and the more respectable townswomen.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

The harlot.

The New York Times

The Harlot's Progress.

The New York Times - Arts

Other terms for slaves were the apprentice, the pauper, the harlot, the felon, the actor, and the complex image of the Southern "Sambo" or Caribbean "Quashee".

Encyclopedia Britannica

"I have this little extra thing -- you know when the harlot collapses because her boyfriend is killed?

The New York Times - Arts

Once Octavian declared war on the "harlot queen" of Egypt, both sides made preparations for an epic confrontation at Actium, on the west coast of Greece.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the harlots", consider the historical or literary context. The term often carries strong negative connotations, so ensure it aligns with your intended tone and purpose.

Common error

Avoid using "the harlots" in modern contexts where more neutral or respectful terms like "sex workers" or "prostitutes" are more appropriate, unless you are intentionally aiming for a specific historical or stylistic effect.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the harlots" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It denotes a specific group of women engaged in prostitution. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and usability, particularly in historical and literary contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"The harlots" is a grammatically sound noun phrase used to refer to female prostitutes. While Ludwig confirms its correctness, its usage requires careful consideration due to its strong negative connotations. Primarily found in news, media, and wiki contexts, it's essential to weigh the historical, literary, or social implications against more neutral alternatives like "prostitutes" or "sex workers". Choosing the most appropriate term ensures both accuracy and sensitivity in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the prostitutes

Replaces "harlots" with a more common synonym referring to women who engage in sexual activity for payment.

the whores

Uses a more direct and often derogatory synonym for "harlots".

the fallen women

Employs a euphemistic term suggesting a loss of innocence or moral standing.

the women of the street

Focuses on the location where these women often conduct their business.

the courtesans

Refers to women, often in historical contexts, who provided companionship and sexual services, sometimes with a higher social standing.

the ladies of the night

A euphemistic phrase highlighting the time of day when such activities occur.

the sex workers

A more modern and neutral term emphasizing the labor aspect of prostitution.

the streetwalkers

Similar to "women of the street", focusing on the act of soliciting customers in public.

the call girls

Suggests a higher-end form of prostitution involving appointments and often better living conditions.

the concubines

Implies a relationship with a man where the woman provides sexual services and perhaps other domestic duties but is not a wife.

FAQs

How can I use "the harlots" in a sentence?

You can use "the harlots" to refer to female prostitutes, particularly in historical or literary contexts. For instance, "The novel depicted the lives of "the harlots" in 18th-century London."

What is a less offensive alternative to "the harlots"?

Consider using terms like "the prostitutes" or "the sex workers", depending on the context. These alternatives are generally considered more neutral and respectful.

What is the historical connotation of "the harlots"?

Historically, "the harlots" carries a strongly negative connotation, often associated with moral condemnation and social ostracism. This contrasts with terms like "the courtesans", which, in some eras, implied a degree of social standing.

Is it appropriate to use "the harlots" in modern writing?

While grammatically correct, using "the harlots" in contemporary writing might be perceived as insensitive or judgmental. Opt for more neutral terms unless the specific context warrants the historical or literary flavor of the original term.