the platoon itself

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the platoon itself" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize the specific group or unit being referred to, often in contrast to other groups or elements. Example: "While the entire battalion was on alert, the platoon itself was tasked with a special reconnaissance mission."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Junger: Well, the first audience we showed it to was the platoon itself.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

The platoon continued on.

The New York Times

The platoon continued its sweep.

The New York Times

The platoon soon surrounded the lighted house.

The New Yorker

Sergeant Chamblin said the platoon wanted revenge.

The New York Times

The platoon is getting ready downstairs".

The New Yorker

I notified all the platoon leaders . . . to . . .

The New Yorker

The platoon would fight where it was.

The New York Times

Vincent J. Noble, the platoon leader.

The New York Times

Lieutenant Smith was new to the platoon.

The New York Times

The rest of the platoon followed through the gate.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the platoon itself" to emphasize that the action or characteristic applies distinctly to the platoon and not necessarily to the larger unit it belongs to. For example, "While the company hesitated, the platoon itself advanced."

Common error

Avoid using "the platoon itself" in sentences where the emphasis is unnecessary. Saying "The platoon advanced" is often sufficient when the context already makes it clear you're referring specifically to that unit.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the platoon itself" functions as a noun phrase that emphasizes a particular military unit. It singles out the platoon as the subject of focus, often to distinguish it from a larger group or highlight its unique role. This is supported by Ludwig, which showcases real-world examples of the phrase in use.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the platoon itself" is a phrase used to specifically emphasize a particular military platoon, drawing attention to its unique actions or characteristics within a broader context. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and finds its primary usage in the realm of News & Media. When writing, use this phrase to add emphasis and distinction, but avoid redundancy in simpler contexts. Alternatives like "the platoon specifically" offer similar emphasis, allowing for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the platoon specifically

Emphasizes the particular platoon being referred to, highlighting a specific focus.

the platoon in particular

Similar to 'specifically', it draws attention to the distinctiveness of the platoon.

the platoon on its own

Highlights the platoon's independent action or capability.

the platoon by itself

Emphasizes the platoon's isolation or self-sufficiency.

that particular platoon

Identifies and singles out a specific platoon from others.

the very platoon

Adds emphasis to the identity of the platoon.

the actual platoon

Confirms the reality or genuineness of the platoon being discussed.

the selfsame platoon

Highlights that the platoon is the very same one previously mentioned.

the aforesaid platoon

Refers back to a platoon previously mentioned, often in formal contexts.

the aforementioned platoon

Refers back to a platoon already mentioned.

FAQs

How can I use "the platoon itself" in a sentence?

Use "the platoon itself" to emphasize that a specific action, characteristic, or situation pertains particularly to that platoon, distinguishing it from other units or the larger group it's part of. For instance, "Despite orders to retreat, the platoon itself held its ground".

What are some alternatives to "the platoon itself"?

You can use alternatives like "the platoon specifically", "the particular platoon", or "the platoon in particular" to emphasize the focus on that specific group.

When is it appropriate to use "the platoon itself"?

It's appropriate when you want to highlight that the platoon, as a distinct entity, is the subject of the action or the focus of a description, often in contrast to other units or expectations. For example, "Although the company suffered heavy losses, the platoon itself remained combat-effective".

What's the difference between "the platoon" and "the platoon itself"?

"The platoon" is a general reference to the unit. Adding "itself" emphasizes that the focus is specifically on the platoon as a distinct entity, often to highlight its unique role, actions, or characteristics. Using "the platoon itself" can suggest a contrast or distinction, e.g., relative to other units in the company.