Word: phalanx (noun)

Associations

• "Phalanx" is a word originally from ancient Greek history. It means a group of soldiers standing close together in a strong formation. Today, it can also mean any group of people or things gathered closely for a common purpose.
• Examples:
  • In history class, we learned about the Greek phalanx, where soldiers stood shoulder to shoulder with shields.
  • The protesters formed a phalanx to block the street.
  • A phalanx of photographers waited at the entrance of the event.
• Synonym: "group" or "formation." The difference is that "phalanx" suggests a tight, organized, and strong group, often for protection or attack, not just any group.

Substitution

• Instead of "phalanx," you could say "formation," "line," "array," or "group."
• For example, "soldiers in formation" is similar but less specific to the historical style.
• "Group" is more general and less formal or strong than "phalanx."

Deconstruction

• The word "phalanx" comes from Greek φάλαγξ (phálanx), meaning "finger" or "line of soldiers."
• It originally described a military formation where soldiers stood tightly packed with shields overlapping.
• No prefix or suffix here; it is a root word borrowed directly from Greek.

Inquiry

• Can you think of a modern situation where people might form a "phalanx" to show strength or unity?
• How is the idea of a "phalanx" different from just a random crowd?
• Have you ever been part of a group that worked closely together like a "phalanx"? What was the purpose?