clique 🔊
Meaning of clique
A small, exclusive group of people with shared interests or purpose, often seen as excluding others.
Key Difference
Unlike general groups, a clique implies exclusivity and sometimes a negative connotation of snobbery or secrecy.
Example of clique
- The high school had a popular clique that was difficult for newcomers to join.
- In the corporate world, the executive clique often made decisions without consulting other employees.
Synonyms
circle 🔊
Meaning of circle
A group of people with shared professions, interests, or acquaintances.
Key Difference
A circle is more inclusive and less secretive than a clique.
Example of circle
- She moved in artistic circles, attending gallery openings and poetry readings.
- The scientist was part of an intellectual circle that discussed groundbreaking theories.
faction 🔊
Meaning of faction
A small, organized group within a larger one, often in conflict with others.
Key Difference
A faction is more about internal conflict, while a clique is about exclusivity.
Example of faction
- The political party split into rival factions over the new policy.
- The rebel faction within the organization pushed for radical changes.
coterie 🔊
Meaning of coterie
An exclusive group of people with shared interests or tastes.
Key Difference
A coterie is more refined and less negative than a clique.
Example of coterie
- The poet was part of a literary coterie that met weekly to discuss their works.
- A coterie of art collectors gathered at the private exhibition.
gang 🔊
Meaning of gang
A group of people who associate closely, often for informal or illicit purposes.
Key Difference
A gang has a more informal or criminal connotation compared to a clique.
Example of gang
- The neighborhood gang was known for their tight-knit loyalty.
- In the 1920s, gang activity surged during Prohibition.
set 🔊
Meaning of set
A group of people with similar social status or interests.
Key Difference
A set is broader and less exclusive than a clique.
Example of set
- The jet set traveled between luxury destinations.
- She belonged to the fashionable set that dictated trends.
inner circle 🔊
Meaning of inner circle
A small group of influential people within a larger organization.
Key Difference
An inner circle implies power and influence, not just exclusivity.
Example of inner circle
- Only the CEO’s inner circle knew about the merger beforehand.
- The president’s inner circle advised him on critical decisions.
crew 🔊
Meaning of crew
A group of people working together, often in a casual or close-knit way.
Key Difference
A crew is more about teamwork and less about exclusivity.
Example of crew
- The film crew worked tirelessly to finish the shoot on time.
- Her close-knit crew of friends always had her back.
clan 🔊
Meaning of clan
A close-knit group, often based on family or shared heritage.
Key Difference
A clan is tied by blood or tradition, while a clique is chosen.
Example of clan
- The Scottish clan gathered for their annual reunion.
- The business was run like a family clan, with loyalty above all.
band 🔊
Meaning of band
A group of people united for a common purpose.
Key Difference
A band is more about shared activity than exclusivity.
Example of band
- A band of explorers set out to cross the uncharted territory.
- The protest was led by a small band of activists.
Conclusion
- A clique is best used when describing a tight, exclusive group that may intentionally exclude others.
- Circle is ideal for describing social or professional groups without negative connotations.
- Faction should be used when referring to a subgroup with conflicting interests within a larger organization.
- Coterie works well for describing refined, exclusive groups, often in artistic or intellectual contexts.
- Gang is suitable for informal or potentially illicit groups.
- Set is appropriate for broader social groups with shared interests or status.
- Inner circle is best for describing influential groups within organizations.
- Crew fits casual or collaborative groups working together.
- Clan should be used for family or heritage-based groups.
- Band is ideal for groups united by a common mission or adventure.