Word: coterie (noun)

Associations

"Coterie" means a small group of people who share the same interests or activities and often meet socially. It is usually a close-knit group, sometimes exclusive or private.

• Example 1: "She belongs to a coterie of artists who meet every Friday to discuss their work." This means a small group of artists who regularly meet.
• Example 2: "The coterie of writers often influences the style of the local literature." Here, it means a small group of writers.
• Example 3: "He was part of a coterie that planned the charity events." This shows a small group working together.

Synonym: "circle" is a common synonym, but "coterie" often implies a smaller, more exclusive group than just any circle of friends or acquaintances.

Substitution

Instead of "coterie," you can use:

• "circle" (a group of people with shared interests, but can be bigger or less exclusive)
• "clique" (a small, exclusive group, often with a slightly negative meaning)
• "club" (a group organized around an activity, often more formal)
• "group" (general word, less specific about exclusivity)

Using "clique" instead of "coterie" might suggest the group is unfriendly to outsiders, while "coterie" is more neutral.

Deconstruction

The word "coterie" comes from French. It originally meant a little coat or group of people who share something closely. It is related to the word "coat" because members of a coterie were seen as closely connected, like a small group sharing a coat or cover.

No prefix or suffix in English; it is a borrowed noun.

Inquiry

• Can you think of a small group you belong to that might be called a coterie?
• How is a coterie different from just a group of friends?
• Do you know any famous coteries in history or literature? What made them special?