[69] A Plague of Collective Nouns: Surprising Examples that Add Creativity to Language

A collective noun is a word that refers to a group of individuals or things. In the case of the word "plague," it is typically associated with a devastating and contagious disease caused by the bacteria Yersinia pestis throughout history. While the word plague primarily refers to a specific illness, several examples exist where it is utilized as a collective noun to describe animals or other related subjects.

One example of a collective noun that incorporates the word "plague" is a "plague of rats." This phrase conjures the image of a large group of rats, often found infesting particular areas or wreaking havoc, especially in urban environments or places linked with overcrowding or poor sanitation. Plagues of rats can be serious issues due to their potential for spreading disease and causing damage to property.

Another example is a "plague of locusts." Locusts are insects that have a unique behavior that causes them to gather in swarms, particularly in response to specific conditions such as overcrowding. These swarms can be enormous and capable of causing severe damage to crops and vegetation as they voraciously consume everything in their path. Plagues of locusts have been significant and recurring agricultural issues in various parts of the world throughout history.

Additionally, the term "plague" has sometimes been extended metaphorically to describe non-living subjects. For instance, one might refer to a "plague of problems" or a "plague of obstacles" to denote a large and overwhelming quantity of difficulties or challenges confronting an individual or group.

In conclusion, while historically associated primarily with an infectious and deadly disease, the word "plague" can also be used as a collective noun to describe groups of animals, particularly rats or locusts, known for causing widespread damage. Furthermore, it can be extended metaphorically to describe collections of issues or hindrances an individual or group might face.

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Plague Of Conspiracy Theories

A plague of conspiracy theories is a gripping and unsettling collective noun phrase that refers to a pervasive and often overwhelming proliferation of unfounded beliefs and suspicions that exist within the realm of society. Like a plague that spreads from...

Example sentence

"The online forums were bustling with a plague of conspiracy theories as people began speculating wildly about global events."

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Plague Of Crows

A plague of crows comprises a visually captivating scene where a large grouping of these intelligent and mischievous birds gathers together. This collective noun phrase conjures an image of ominousness and mystery, drawing attention to the unusual and som...

Example sentence

"As I walked through the eerie forest, a plague of crows suddenly descended upon the trees, ominously cawing in unison."

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Plague Of Delays

A plague of delays is a descriptive collective noun phrase that vividly captures the frustrating experience of encountering numerous and persistent delays. Plague typically refers to a widespread and uncontrollable epidemic, while delays signify disruptio...

Example sentence

"Yesterday, our journey was marred by a plague of delays that seemed to plague every form of transportation."

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Plague Of Demons

A plague of demons is a compelling and atmospheric collective noun phrase often used to describe a gathering or swarm of demonic beings. Evoking a sinister and malevolent aura, this phrase conjures visions of an overwhelming and ominous presence resulting...

Example sentence

"A plague of demons descended upon the town, wreaking havoc and spreading fear among the residents."

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Plague Of Disappointments

Plague of Disappointments is an evocative collective noun phrase that vividly captures the essence of a swarm of unsatisfactory experiences or occurrences that have infiltrated one's life. Just like a plague, this phrase engages the imagination with a sen...

Example sentence

"The Plague of Disappointments haunted the company for months, as one setback after another hindered their progress."

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Plague Of Discontent

A Plague of Discontent refers to a collective noun phrase that vividly captures the overwhelming sense of unrest and dissatisfaction within a group or community. Just like a contagious epidemic, this metaphorical plague spreads rapidly, infecting members ...

Example sentence

"The Plague of Discontent spreads like wildfire, consuming hearts and minds wherever it goes."

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Plague Of Dishonesty

Plague of Dishonesty is a captivating and evocative collective noun phrase that captures the essence and magnitude of deceit. It represents a metaphorical swarm or infestation of dishonesty that infiltrates and pollutes a society or a specific context. Ju...

Example sentence

"A plague of dishonesty has tainted the integrity of the business world."

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Plague Of Doubts

A plague of doubts is a captivating and evocative collective noun phrase that implies a pervasive and overwhelming swarm of uncertainty and skepticism. It paints a vivid picture of a multitude of doubts encroaching upon an individual's mind or infiltratin...

Example sentence

"The author's mind was consumed by a plague of doubts, making it impossible to put pen to paper."

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Plague Of Earthworms

A Plague of Earthworms is a captivating collective noun phrase used to describe a large gathering or abundance of these remarkable invertebrates. Earthworms, as essential contributors to the enrichment and health of soil ecosystems, possess an uncanny abi...

Example sentence

"A plague of earthworms wriggled through the damp soil, transforming the garden into a buzzing ecosystem."

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Plague Of Excuses

Plague of Excuses is an intriguing and eponymous collective noun phrase that captures the essence of a group situation where excuses become overly pervasive and overwhelming. This imaginative phrase aptly depicts a scenario where a multitude of individual...

Example sentence

"The team put forward a plague of excuses as to why they couldn't meet their deadlines."

Some of these collective noun phrases are traditional, while others showcase a touch of creativity. Choose the one that best fits your narrative or discussion.

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