Other Ways to Say “En Masse”: Expanding Your English Vocabulary

The phrase “en masse” is a useful idiom, borrowed from French, that means “in a group” or “all together.” While effective, relying solely on this phrase can limit your expressive range. Understanding alternative ways to convey the same meaning enhances your writing and speaking, making your communication more nuanced and engaging. This article explores numerous synonyms and related expressions, providing context, examples, and practice exercises to help you confidently incorporate them into your vocabulary. Whether you are an English language learner or a seasoned speaker, mastering these alternatives will refine your language skills.

This guide is designed for students, writers, and anyone looking to improve their English proficiency. By the end of this article, you will have a comprehensive understanding of various ways to express the concept of “en masse,” enabling you to choose the most appropriate expression for any given situation.

Table of Contents

• Definition of “En Masse”
• Structural Breakdown
• Types and Categories of Synonyms
  • General Synonyms
  • Numerical Synonyms
  • Action-Oriented Synonyms
  • Group-Focused Synonyms
  • Intensity-Related Synonyms
• Examples
  • General Synonyms Examples
  • Numerical Synonyms Examples
  • Action-Oriented Synonyms Examples
  • Group-Focused Synonyms Examples
  • Intensity-Related Synonyms Examples
• Usage Rules
• Common Mistakes
• Practice Exercises
• Advanced Topics
• FAQ
• Conclusion

Definition of “En Masse”

“En masse” is a French term that has been adopted into the English language. It functions as an adverb, meaning in a body, all together, or in a mass. The term is used to describe actions or movements performed by a large group of people or things simultaneously. It often implies a sense of unity or coordination in the action.

The term is typically used in formal or semi-formal contexts. In everyday conversation, simpler alternatives are often preferred. However, “en masse” can add a touch of sophistication or formality to your writing or speech. Understanding its meaning and appropriate usage is crucial for effective communication.

The word “masse” comes from the Old French word “masse,” meaning “lump” or “heap.” The addition of “en” indicates “in” or “as a.” Therefore, “en masse” literally translates to “in a lump” or “as a mass,” which accurately reflects its meaning of a group acting together.

Structural Breakdown

As an adverbial phrase, “en masse” usually modifies a verb, describing how the action is performed. It typically appears after the verb it modifies but can sometimes be placed before for emphasis. The phrase itself is invariable; it does not change form regardless of the number or gender of the subjects involved.

The structure is straightforward: en + masse. The preposition “en” links directly to the noun “masse,” forming a single adverbial phrase. There are no variations in its spelling or grammatical structure. Its simplicity is part of its appeal, but also a reason to explore alternative expressions for variety and precision.

Consider these examples to understand the placement of “en masse” in a sentence:

• The protesters marched en masse toward the parliament.
• En masse, the birds took flight.
• They decided to resign en masse.

Types and Categories of Synonyms

To effectively replace “en masse,” it’s helpful to categorize synonyms based on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Here are several categories with examples:

General Synonyms

These synonyms offer broad replacements for “en masse” without adding specific connotations. They are suitable for most contexts where “en masse” is used.

• Together
• As a group
• All at once
• In unison
• Collectively

Numerical Synonyms

These synonyms emphasize the quantity or totality involved in the action. They are useful when highlighting the number of participants.

• All
• Every one
• The whole lot
• All together
• To a man

Action-Oriented Synonyms

These synonyms focus on the coordinated or simultaneous nature of the action. They are appropriate when the emphasis is on the action itself.

• Simultaneously
• In concert
• Concurrently
• At the same time
• In one go

Group-Focused Synonyms

These synonyms highlight the unity and solidarity of the group performing the action. They are suitable when emphasizing the group’s identity or purpose.

• As one
• As a body
• Unitedly
• In solidarity
• Shoulder to shoulder

Intensity-Related Synonyms

These synonyms add a sense of force or impact to the action. They are useful when emphasizing the power or decisiveness of the group.

• Resoundingly
• Overwhelmingly
• Unanimously
• Decisively
• Forcefully

Examples

The following tables provide examples of how to use each type of synonym in sentences, offering context and demonstrating their versatility.

General Synonyms Examples

The table below illustrates the usage of general synonyms for “en masse” in various sentences. These synonyms provide a direct and simple alternative, suitable for a wide range of contexts.

Original Sentence (with “en masse”)	Sentence with Synonym
The students protested en masse against the new policy.	The students protested together against the new policy.
The villagers fled en masse from the approaching fire.	The villagers fled as a group from the approaching fire.
The audience stood en masse to applaud the performance.	The audience stood all at once to applaud the performance.
The choir sang en masse, creating a powerful sound.	The choir sang in unison, creating a powerful sound.
The employees decided en masse to demand better working conditions.	The employees decided collectively to demand better working conditions.
The birds flew away en masse when the dog barked.	The birds flew away together when the dog barked.
The crowd moved en masse towards the stage.	The crowd moved as a group towards the stage.
The team resigned en masse in protest.	The team resigned collectively in protest.
The shareholders voted en masse in favor of the merger.	The shareholders voted together in favor of the merger.
The refugees arrived en masse at the border.	The refugees arrived as a group at the border.
The dancers performed en masse, creating a stunning visual effect.	The dancers performed in unison, creating a stunning visual effect.
The soldiers advanced en masse across the battlefield.	The soldiers advanced together across the battlefield.
The townspeople gathered en masse in the town square.	The townspeople gathered as a group in the town square.
The musicians played en masse, filling the hall with music.	The musicians played in unison, filling the hall with music.
The members agreed en masse to the new proposal.	The members agreed collectively to the new proposal.
The graduates celebrated en masse after the ceremony.	The graduates celebrated together after the ceremony.
The demonstrators marched en masse through the city streets.	The demonstrators marched as a group through the city streets.
The congregation prayed en masse for peace.	The congregation prayed together for peace.
The citizens responded en masse to the call for volunteers.	The citizens responded collectively to the call for volunteers.
The employees walked out en masse to show their dissatisfaction.	The employees walked out together to show their dissatisfaction.

Numerical Synonyms Examples

This table demonstrates the use of numerical synonyms to replace “en masse.” These alternatives emphasize the number of individuals or items involved, adding a quantitative aspect to the description.

Original Sentence (with “en masse”)	Sentence with Synonym
The voters supported the candidate en masse.	The voters supported the candidate all.
The books were donated en masse to the library.	The books were donated the whole lot to the library.
The soldiers stood en masse to salute the general.	The soldiers stood to a man to salute the general.
The students answered the question en masse.	The students answered the question all together.
The townspeople contributed en masse to the relief fund.	The townspeople contributed every one to the relief fund.
The apples fell en masse from the tree during the storm.	The apples fell all from the tree during the storm.
The documents were submitted en masse before the deadline.	The documents were submitted the whole lot before the deadline.
The sailors cheered en masse as they approached the harbor.	The sailors cheered all together as they approached the harbor.
The researchers agreed en masse on the findings of the study.	The researchers agreed every one on the findings of the study.
The donations arrived en masse after the disaster.	The donations arrived the whole lot after the disaster.
The audience applauded en masse after the performance.	The audience applauded all after the performance.
The attendees registered en masse for the conference.	The attendees registered all together for the conference.
The community supported the project en masse.	The community supported the project every one.
The trees blossomed en masse in the spring.	The trees blossomed all in the spring.
The applications were reviewed en masse by the committee.	The applications were reviewed the whole lot by the committee.
The fans celebrated en masse the team’s victory.	The fans celebrated all together the team’s victory.
The participants agreed en masse to the terms of the agreement.	The participants agreed every one to the terms of the agreement.
The complaints were filed en masse against the company.	The complaints were filed the whole lot against the company.
The members voted en masse for the new president.	The members voted all for the new president.
The packages arrived en masse at the warehouse.	The packages arrived the whole lot at the warehouse.
The children sang en masse the national anthem.	The children sang all together the national anthem.
The experts concurred en masse on the best course of action.	The experts concurred every one on the best course of action.
The solutions were implemented en masse to address the problem.	The solutions were implemented the whole lot to address the problem.

Action-Oriented Synonyms Examples

The following table showcases action-oriented synonyms for “en masse.” These synonyms emphasize the simultaneous or coordinated nature of the action being performed.

Original Sentence (with “en masse”)	Sentence with Synonym
The dancers moved en masse across the stage.	The dancers moved simultaneously across the stage.
The musicians played en masse, creating a harmonious sound.	The musicians played in concert, creating a harmonious sound.
The runners started the race en masse.	The runners started the race at the same time.
The students submitted their assignments en masse.	The students submitted their assignments concurrently.
The workers completed the task en masse.	The workers completed the task in one go.
The lights went out en masse due to the power failure.	The lights went out simultaneously due to the power failure.
The actors delivered their lines en masse during the play.	The actors delivered their lines in concert during the play.
The volunteers began the cleanup en masse.	The volunteers began the cleanup at the same time.
The participants signed the petition en masse.	The participants signed the petition concurrently.
The climbers reached the summit en masse.	The climbers reached the summit in one go.
The leaves changed color en masse in the autumn.	The leaves changed color simultaneously in the autumn.
The artists painted en masse to create the mural.	The artists painted in concert to create the mural.
The protesters chanted en masse during the demonstration.	The protesters chanted at the same time during the demonstration.
The scientists published their findings en masse.	The scientists published their findings concurrently.
The builders constructed the building en masse.	The builders constructed the building in one go.
The fireworks exploded en masse during the celebration.	The fireworks exploded simultaneously during the celebration.
The musicians played en masse to celebrate the victory.	The musicians played in concert to celebrate the victory.
The students started their exams en masse.	The students started their exams at the same time.
The attendees registered en masse for the event.	The attendees registered concurrently for the event.
The team completed the project en masse.	The team completed the project in one go.
The petals opened en masse in the sunlight.	The petals opened simultaneously in the sunlight.
The chefs cooked en masse to prepare the feast.	The chefs cooked in concert to prepare the feast.
The citizens voted en masse in the election.	The citizens voted at the same time in the election.

Group-Focused Synonyms Examples

This table provides examples of group-focused synonyms for “en masse.” These alternatives emphasize the unity and solidarity of the group performing the action.

Original Sentence (with “en masse”)	Sentence with Synonym
The community stood en masse against the proposal.	The community stood as one against the proposal.
The workers marched en masse in support of their union.	The workers marched in solidarity in support of their union.
The soldiers advanced en masse towards the enemy.	The soldiers advanced as a body towards the enemy.
The team worked en masse to complete the project.	The team worked unitedly to complete the project.
The rescuers searched en masse for the missing child.	The rescuers searched shoulder to shoulder for the missing child.
The villagers protested en masse against the dam construction.	The villagers protested as one against the dam construction.
The nurses advocated en masse for better patient care.	The nurses advocated in solidarity for better patient care.
The citizens gathered en masse to celebrate the holiday.	The citizens gathered as a body to celebrate the holiday.
The neighbors cooperated en masse to clean the street.	The neighbors cooperated unitedly to clean the street.
The volunteers assisted en masse during the emergency.	The volunteers assisted shoulder to shoulder during the emergency.
The students rallied en masse for educational reform.	The students rallied as one for educational reform.
The employees supported en masse the new initiative.	The employees supported in solidarity the new initiative.
The members voted en masse to approve the changes.	The members voted as a body to approve the changes.
The residents cooperated en masse to rebuild the community.	The residents cooperated unitedly to rebuild the community.
The doctors worked en masse to treat the patients.	The doctors worked shoulder to shoulder to treat the patients.
The activists demonstrated en masse for social justice.	The activists demonstrated as one for social justice.
The supporters campaigned en masse for the candidate.	The supporters campaigned in solidarity for the candidate.
The representatives agreed en masse to the resolution.	The representatives agreed as a body to the resolution.
The participants collaborated en masse to solve the problem.	The participants collaborated unitedly to solve the problem.
The workers assembled en masse to start the project.	The workers assembled shoulder to shoulder to start the project.
The parents advocated en masse for better schools.	The parents advocated as one for better schools.
The citizens marched en masse for equal rights.	The citizens marched in solidarity for equal rights.
The shareholders voted en masse to accept the offer.	The shareholders voted as a body to accept the offer.

Intensity-Related Synonyms Examples

This table provides examples of intensity-related synonyms for “en masse.” These alternatives emphasize the force, decisiveness, or overwhelming nature of the action.

Original Sentence (with “en masse”)	Sentence with Synonym
The proposal was rejected en masse by the committee.	The proposal was rejected resoundingly by the committee.
The support for the initiative was en masse.	The support for the initiative was overwhelmingly.
The decision was made en masse by the board.	The decision was made unanimously by the board.
The army attacked en masse, breaking through the enemy lines.	The army attacked forcefully, breaking through the enemy lines.
The town voted en masse to approve the new development.	The town voted decisively to approve the new development.
The complaints were dismissed en masse by the judge.	The complaints were dismissed resoundingly by the judge.
The approval for the project was en masse.	The approval for the project was overwhelmingly.
The verdict was reached en masse by the jury.	The verdict was reached unanimously by the jury.
The protesters demonstrated en masse, demanding change.	The protesters demonstrated forcefully, demanding change.
The referendum passed en masse, signaling a clear mandate.	The referendum passed decisively, signaling a clear mandate.
The recommendations were accepted en masse by the administration.	The recommendations were accepted resoundingly by the administration.
The enthusiasm for the event was en masse.	The enthusiasm for the event was overwhelmingly.
The resolution was adopted en masse by the assembly.	The resolution was adopted unanimously by the assembly.
The troops defended the city en masse, repelling the invaders.	The troops defended the city forcefully, repelling the invaders.
The measure was approved en masse by the legislature.	The measure was approved decisively by the legislature.
The accusations were refuted en masse by the defendant.	The accusations were refuted resoundingly by the defendant.
The demand for the product was en masse.	The demand for the product was overwhelmingly.
The agreement was ratified en masse by the council.	The agreement was ratified unanimously by the council.
The soldiers fought en masse, securing the victory.	The soldiers fought forcefully, securing the victory.
The policy was endorsed en masse by the organization.	The policy was endorsed decisively by the organization.

Usage Rules

While “en masse” is relatively straightforward, its synonyms require careful consideration of context. Here are some key rules to keep in mind:

• Formality: “En masse” and some of its synonyms (e.g., “in concert,” “concurrently”) are more formal than others (e.g., “together,” “all at once”). Choose a synonym that matches the tone of your writing or speech.
• Specificity: Consider what aspect of “en masse” you want to emphasize. If you want to highlight the number of people involved, use numerical synonyms. If you want to emphasize the simultaneous nature of the action, use action-oriented synonyms.
• Clarity: Ensure that your chosen synonym does not create ambiguity. The goal is to make your meaning clearer, not more confusing.
• Word Choice: Some synonyms are more suitable for certain actions or subjects. For example, “to a man” is typically used to describe actions by men, while “shoulder to shoulder” implies physical closeness and cooperation.

Common Mistakes

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when using synonyms for “en masse”:

Incorrect	Correct	Explanation
The students protested as a one.	The students protested as one.	“As a one” is grammatically incorrect. The correct phrase is “as one.”
The team resigned in the solidarity.	The team resigned in solidarity.	“Solidarity” is a noun, and the correct prepositional phrase is “in solidarity.”
The crowd shouted at the same.	The crowd shouted at the same time.	“At the same” is incomplete. The correct phrase is “at the same time.”
The members voted unanimous.	The members voted unanimously.	“Unanimous” is an adjective. The adverb “unanimously” is needed to modify the verb “voted.”
The workers marched shoulder by shoulder.	The workers marched shoulder to shoulder.	“Shoulder by shoulder” is not the correct idiom. The correct phrase is “shoulder to shoulder.”
The students submitted their assignments simultaneous.	The students submitted their assignments simultaneously.	“Simultaneous” is an adjective. The adverb “simultaneously” is needed to modify the verb “submitted.”
The residents agreed in a body.	The residents agreed as a body.	The correct phrase is “as a body” to indicate collective agreement.
The team completed the project in one going.	The team completed the project in one go.	The correct idiom is “in one go,” not “in one going.”

Practice Exercises

Test your understanding with these practice exercises. Choose the best synonym for “en masse” in each sentence.

Question	Options	Answer
1. The protesters marched ______ to the city hall.	a) in one go b) together c) unanimously d) shoulder to shoulder	b) together
2. The jury voted ______ to convict the defendant.	a) simultaneously b) in solidarity c) unanimously d) as a group	c) unanimously
3. The birds flew away ______ when the storm approached.	a) as one b) all at once c) forcefully d) in concert	b) all at once
4. The employees resigned ______ in protest of the new policy.	a) in solidarity b) at the same time c) shoulder to shoulder d) as a body	d) as a body
5. The volunteers worked ______ to clean up the park.	a) in one go b) unitedly c) resoundingly d) every one	b) unitedly
6. The students submitted their applications ______.	a) concurrently b) as one c) overwhelmingly d) to a man	a) concurrently
7. The community stood ______ against the proposed development.	a) in solidarity b) at the same time c) unanimously d) as a group	a) in solidarity
8. The team completed the project ______.	a) in one go b) all together c) shoulder to shoulder d) forcefully	a) in one go
9. The audience applauded ______ after the performance.	a) resoundingly b) as a body c) all at once d) in concert	c) all at once
10. The citizens voted ______ to approve the new law.	a) decisively b) in solidarity c) simultaneously d) as one	a) decisively

Advanced Topics

For advanced learners, consider the subtle nuances and contextual implications of each synonym. Explore how different synonyms can affect the tone and impact of your writing. For instance, “shoulder to shoulder” evokes a sense of camaraderie and shared effort, while “unanimously” emphasizes agreement and consensus.

Also, delve into the historical and cultural contexts of these expressions. Understanding their origins can provide deeper insights into their meanings and appropriate usage. For example, “to a man” reflects a historical context where men were often the primary actors in public life.

Finally, analyze how these synonyms are used in literature and other forms of media. Pay attention to the choices that writers and speakers make, and consider why they chose a particular synonym over others. This will help you develop a more sophisticated understanding of English vocabulary and improve your ability to express yourself effectively.

FAQ

1. Is “en masse” formal?

   Yes, “en masse” is considered a somewhat formal term. While it’s perfectly acceptable in formal writing and speech, simpler alternatives like “together” or “as a group” might be more appropriate in casual conversation.

2. Can I use “en masse” for objects, or only for people?

   Yes, “en masse” can be used for both people and objects. For example, “The leaves fell en masse from the trees” is perfectly acceptable.

3. What’s the difference between “as a group” and “as one”?

   “As a group” simply emphasizes that people are acting together. “As one” implies a stronger sense of unity and shared purpose.

4. When should I use “unanimously” instead of “together”?

   Use “unanimously” when you want to emphasize that everyone involved is in complete agreement. “Together” simply indicates that they are acting as a group, without necessarily implying complete agreement.

5. Is “to a man” sexist?

   The phrase “to a man” can be considered sexist, as it implies that men are the default participants. Consider using alternatives like “everyone” or “all” to avoid gender bias.

6. Are there any regional differences in the usage of these synonyms?

   While most of these synonyms are widely understood, some

   are more common in certain regions or dialects. For example, “all together” might be more frequently used in some parts of the English-speaking world than others. Pay attention to the language used by native speakers in your region to get a better sense of local preferences.

7. How can I improve my vocabulary of synonyms?

   Read widely, pay attention to the words that native speakers use, and make a conscious effort to incorporate new words into your vocabulary. Use a thesaurus to find synonyms for words you already know, and practice using them in different contexts.

8. Are there any online resources that can help me learn more about synonyms?

   Yes, there are many excellent online resources, including online thesauruses, dictionaries, and language learning websites. Some popular options include Merriam-Webster’s Thesaurus, Thesaurus.com, and Grammarly.

9. Can the meaning of “en masse” change depending on the context?

   While the core meaning of “en masse” remains consistent, the specific nuance can vary depending on the context. For example, “The protesters gathered en masse” implies a large group assembling, while “The team resigned en masse” suggests a coordinated act of protest.

10. Is it okay to mix and match synonyms in my writing?

    Yes, mixing and matching synonyms is a great way to make your writing more engaging and avoid repetition. However, be sure to choose synonyms that are appropriate for the context and tone of your writing.

Conclusion

Mastering synonyms for “en masse” significantly enhances your ability to communicate effectively and precisely. By understanding the nuances of each alternative, you can choose the most appropriate expression for any given situation, adding depth and richness to your language. Whether you opt for general synonyms like “together,” numerical synonyms like “all,” action-oriented synonyms like “simultaneously,” group-focused synonyms like “as one,” or intensity-related synonyms like “unanimously,” you’ll be well-equipped to express the concept of “in a group” with greater accuracy and impact.

Continue to practice using these synonyms in your writing and speech, and pay attention to how others use them. With time and effort, you’ll develop a strong command of English vocabulary and become a more confident and articulate communicator. Remember that language is a dynamic tool, and expanding your vocabulary is a lifelong journey.