Collective Noun for Flies

What Is a Group of Flies Called?

A group of flies is called a swarm.
Collective NounUsage
swarma swarm of flies
collective noun for flies

swarm of flies

What Type of Word is "Swarm"?

The word "swarm" is a collective noun. A collective noun is a word used to represent a group of people, animals, or things.

"Swarm Is" or "Swarm Are"?

Writers are often unsure whether to treat a collective noun like "swarm" as singular or plural. As a general rule, you should treat a collective noun as singular. However, if the context of your sentence focuses on the individuals within the group, you should treat it as plural. For example:
  • The swarm is moving nearer. correct tick
  • The swarm are moving in different directions. correct tick
Here are 300 more collective nouns for animals.
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This page was written by Craig Shrives.