these idiots

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "these idiots" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express frustration or disdain towards a group of people, often in informal contexts. Example: "I can't believe these idiots forgot the meeting again."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

But we at least know something about these idiots' idiotic parties.

Huffington Post

"I'm lumped in with these idiots.

The New Yorker

"And these idiots in New York approved it," Kilmeade said.

The New Yorker

"What are these idiots doing now?" Lefèvre said.

The New Yorker

Pfft... Or, knee-jerk response: who are these idiots?

The Guardian - Tech

"There are these idiots out there," he said.

The New York Times

These idiots sit there behind their keyboards and do this".

The Guardian

He's not a man who ought to be wrestling with all these idiots.

Independent

"And I'm saying to these idiots, 'Diagnostic instruments have to be in air-conditioned rooms!

The New Yorker

"Oh who are these idiots?" And then, "I pity viewers who still like this".

Independent

If these idiots have death wishes, I hope they are achieved.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "these idiots" to express strong disapproval or frustration, but be mindful of your audience and the context, as it can be perceived as offensive.

Common error

Avoid using "these idiots" in professional or academic writing. Opt for more neutral or formal language, such as "those individuals" or "those responsible", to maintain a respectful and objective tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "these idiots" functions as a demonstrative phrase followed by a noun phrase, serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies and characterizes a group of people deemed foolish or incompetent, as supported by examples found by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "these idiots" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to convey strong disapproval or frustration. While Ludwig confirms its usability in written English, it's crucial to consider the context due to its informal and potentially offensive nature. Synonyms like "those fools" or "these morons" may offer milder alternatives. Ludwig's examples primarily stem from news and media sources, highlighting its prevalence in informal discourse. Therefore, exercise caution and consider your audience when employing this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

those fools

Uses a different noun to express a similar lack of intelligence or good judgment.

those imbeciles

Employs a more clinical term suggesting a marked lack of intelligence.

these morons

Replaces "idiots" with a synonym implying a similar degree of foolishness.

these dunces

Uses a less common term for someone slow to learn or understand.

those simpletons

Replaces "idiots" with a word suggesting naivety or lack of sophistication.

these blockheads

Uses an antiquated term implying stupidity or stubbornness.

those nitwits

Employs a more playful term for someone considered foolish or ineffective.

these twits

Uses a British term implying foolishness or silliness.

those dolts

Substitutes with a word implying a lack of intelligence and clumsiness.

these boneheads

Uses a slang term suggesting stupidity or stubbornness.

FAQs

How can I use "these idiots" in a sentence?

You can use "these idiots" to express frustration or disdain towards a group of people. For example, "I can't believe "these idiots" forgot the meeting again".

What's a less offensive way to say "these idiots"?

Consider using alternatives like "those fools", "these morons", or "those individuals" to express your disapproval in a more polite manner.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "these idiots"?

The phrase "these idiots" is generally appropriate in informal settings when expressing frustration or contempt. However, avoid using it in formal or professional contexts where a more respectful tone is expected.

Are there synonyms for "these idiots" that are less harsh?

Yes, you can use synonyms such as "these fools", "these simpletons", or "these twits" to convey a similar meaning with less intensity.