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From a School of Fish to a School of Thought: Fascinating Collective Noun Examples Explained

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A collective noun is a special type of noun that refers to a group of people, animals, or things. One of the most commonly used collective nouns is "school".

When referring to a group of fish, the word "school" is used, such as "a school of fish". In this context, the word defines a large group of fishes swimming together, navigating the waters in synchrony. The purpose of swimming together is often related to safety in numbers, better food sourcing, or finding mates. Fish species like sardines, anchovies, or herring are typically known for their organized schooling behavior.

However, the collective noun "school" is not only limited to fish. It can be used to describe a collection of other animals such as dolphins or sharks, where you often hear about "a school of dolphins" or "a school of sharks". In both cases, these animals show a cooperative behavior and stay together, usually for safety, hunting, or traveling long distances.

Beyond animals, "school" is also used as a collective noun for groups of individuals. Most commonly, it refers to a formal educational institution, like "a school of students". This definition encompasses a number of learners gathering together for instruction and learning under the guidance of teachers or professors.

The word "school" can also be used creatively in other ways to describe groups of people, often with a common interest or purpose. For example, a "school of thought" refers to a group of people who share similar beliefs, ideologies, or theories. Similarly, "a school of artists" would refer to a collective group of artistic individuals sharing a similar style, technique, or influence.

In conclusion, the collective noun "school" is versatile and can be used to describe a range of groups or gatherings, from fish swimming together to students learning together. Its flexibility gives it a wide range of uses in the English language, reflecting the diversity of collective behavior among different species and communities.

1

School of Butterflyfish

A school of butterflyfish refers to a breathtaking grouping of these vibrantly colored marine species characterized by their stunning, intricate patterns and graceful, fluttering movements. These small, tropical fish are notable for their captivating beau...

Example sentence: A school of butterflyfish can be seen gracefully swimming off the coast, their vibrant colors creating a stunning sight

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2

School of Fish

A school of fish refers to a fascinating and harmonious spectacle provided by a large group of fish swimming together in a coordinated and synchronized manner. Resembling a well-orchestrated dance, these aquatic creatures move as one unit, creating mesmer...

Example sentence: I watched in awe as a school of fish gracefully swam through the crystal-clear waters

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3

School of Porpoises

A school of porpoises refers to a captivating sight of these playful marine mammals swimming and interacting together. This collective noun phrase vividly portrays a harmonious rhythm and organization among the porpoises, creating an image of a closely kn...

Example sentence: As I stood on the dock, a majestic school of porpoises gracefully swam by, their sleek bodies cutting through the water

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4

School of Salmon

A school of salmon refers to a fascinating natural phenomena where a group of salmon swims together as they migrate upstream or downstream, typically in rivers or to the ocean. This collective noun phrase portrays the sight of several individual salmon sw...

Example sentence: I watched in awe as a massive school of salmon swam upstream, their shimmering silver bodies glistening in the sunlight

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5

School of Sharks

A school of sharks refers to a spectacular and mesmerizing sight of a group of various species of sharks swimming together. This collective noun phrase, often used to describe these oceanic predators, evokes images of power, grace, and mystery. One can im...

Example sentence: A school of sharks was spotted off the coast, shimmering in the crystal-clear water

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6

School of Whales

A school of whales refers to a remarkable gathering of large, majestic marine mammals known as whales. It describes a group of these enormous creatures, often consisting of various species, swimming together or engaging in synchronized activities. Resembl...

Example sentence: A school of whales was spotted off the coast, gracefully gliding through the water

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7

School of Dolphins

A school of dolphins is a truly enchanting sight, as it describes a gathering or group of these beautiful and intelligent marine creatures swimming together in harmony and synchrony. Dolphins, renowned for their remarkable social behavior, exhibit a compl...

Example sentence: I spotted a school of dolphins from the boat, gracefully leaping and playing in the waves

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School of Jellyfish

A school of jellyfish is a mesmerizing spectacle that captures the imagination and curiosity of both nature enthusiasts and casual onlookers. It refers to a group or collective noun phrase used to describe a gathering of jellyfish swimming together in har...

Example sentence: I observed a mesmerizing sight as a school of jellyfish gracefully glided through the tranquil ocean waters

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School of Swimmers

A school of swimmers refers to a fascinating sight of aquatic beings gliding through the water, displaying a synchronized choreography. The collective noun phrase evokes an image of a harmonious community that moves together with coordination and grace. F...

Example sentence: A school of swimmers gathered in the crystal-clear waters, gracefully moving in synchrony

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10

School of Wizards

A school of wizards refers to a remarkable gathering of individuals who practice the extraordinary and mesmerizing art of magic. This collective noun phrase encapsulates a close-knit community of accomplished wizardry practitioners who come together to st...

Example sentence: The School of Wizards is a mystical institution known for its rigorous magical training

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