B2 Noun #19 most common 3 min read

corps

Imagine a group of people who all do a very specific job together. This group is called a corps.

For example, a group of people who are all doctors in the military might be called the Medical Corps. They work together for a common goal.

It can also be a large part of an army, like a big team of soldiers working under one leader.

So, a corps is basically a special team of people, often in the military or a professional field, who are all working towards the same goal.

§ Understanding the Noun "Corps"

The word "corps" is a fascinating noun with a rich history, primarily rooted in military contexts but also extending to professional groups. Pronounced like the word "core" (not "corpse"), it refers to a specialized group of people who work together for a common purpose, often within a structured organization. Understanding its nuances in usage is key to mastering its application in sentences.

Definition
A specialized group of people working together in a specific professional field or military branch. It often refers to a large unit of an army or a body of persons under common direction.

§ Grammatical Considerations

"Corps" is a singular noun, but it can refer to a group of individuals. What's particularly interesting about "corps" is that its plural form is also "corps." The context or accompanying determiners will indicate whether you're referring to one corps or multiple. For example, "a corps" indicates singular, while "several corps" indicates plural.

  • Singular: The diplomatic corps plays a crucial role in international relations.
  • Plural: The army has three corps deployed in the region.

When using "corps" as the subject of a sentence, the verb agreement depends on whether you are emphasizing the group as a single unit or the individuals within it. However, generally, it takes a singular verb.

The medical corps provides essential support to the frontline troops.

§ Common Prepositions and Phrases with "Corps"

"Corps" often appears with specific prepositions that help define its role or relationship in a sentence. Here are some of the most common:

  • of the corps: This phrase is used to specify the type or purpose of the corps.

The morale of the entire corps was exceptionally high after the successful mission.

  • in a corps: This indicates belonging or being part of a particular corps.

He served in the Peace Corps for two years, helping communities in Africa.

  • with the corps: Similar to "in a corps," this suggests association or working alongside the corps.

She trained with the diplomatic corps before her overseas assignment.

  • to the corps: Used to indicate dedication or commitment.

His loyalty to the Marine Corps was unwavering.

§ Examples in Various Contexts

The versatility of "corps" allows it to be used in both military and civilian contexts. Here are a few more examples to illustrate its usage:

  • Military Context:

The engineer corps was responsible for building the temporary bridge.

  • Diplomatic Context:

The foreign diplomatic corps attended the national day celebration.

  • Volunteer/Service Context:

She joined the Peace Corps to help underdeveloped nations.

  • Professional Context:

The teaching corps in the district is facing a shortage of qualified educators.

By familiarizing yourself with these common uses and grammatical rules, you can confidently integrate "corps" into your vocabulary.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

The silent 'ps' makes phonetic decoding challenging.

Writing 3/5

The silent 'ps' can lead to misspellings.

Speaking 3/5

Pronunciation differs significantly from spelling (kohr vs korps).

Listening 2/5

Homophonous with 'core' in some contexts, requiring contextual understanding.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

group army unit specialized professional

Learn Next

corpse core corporate incorporate esprit de corps

Advanced

battalion regiment brigade division company (military)

Common Collocations

diplomatic corps diplomatik birlik
press corps basın birliği
medical corps sağlık birliği
army corps kolordu
marine corps deniz piyadeleri
peace corps barış gönüllüleri
officer corps subay kadrosu
corps commander kolordu komutanı
corps strength kolordu gücü
corps colors kolordu renkleri

Common Phrases

join the corps

birliğe katılmak

serve in the corps

birlik içinde görev yapmak

a corps of engineers

mühendisler birliği

the entire corps

tüm birlik

within the corps

birlik içinde

leading the corps

birliğe liderlik etmek

the spirit of the corps

birliğin ruhu

a member of the corps

birliğin bir üyesi

form a corps

bir birlik oluşturmak

the traditions of the corps

birliğin gelenekleri

Test Yourself 78 questions

fill blank A1

The army has many soldiers in its ____.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: corps

A corps is a group of soldiers in the army.

fill blank A1

The ballet ____ danced beautifully.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: corps

A ballet corps is a group of dancers.

fill blank A1

He joined the diplomatic ____.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: corps

A diplomatic corps is a group of diplomats.

fill blank A1

The medical ____ works in the hospital.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: corps

A medical corps is a group of people who work in medicine.

fill blank A1

The volunteer ____ helped clean the park.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: corps

A volunteer corps is a group of people who volunteer.

fill blank A1

She is part of the press ____.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: corps

A press corps is a group of journalists.

listening A1

Listen for 'corps' meaning a group in the army.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: The army has a special corps.
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening A1

Listen for 'corps' meaning a group of diplomats.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: She joined the diplomatic corps.
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening A1

Listen for 'corps' meaning a group of engineers.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: A corps of engineers built the bridge.
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking A1

Read this aloud:

Say: 'The Peace Corps helps people.'

Focus: Corps (pronounced 'core')

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking A1

Read this aloud:

Say: 'He is in the medical corps.'

Focus: Corps (pronounced 'core')

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking A1

Read this aloud:

Say: 'Our school has a dance corps.'

Focus: Corps (pronounced 'core')

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing A1

Write a short sentence using the word 'corps' to describe a group of people who help others.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

The peace corps helps people in different countries.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing A1

Imagine you are talking about soldiers. Write a sentence using 'corps' to say they are a part of an army.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

The army corps has many soldiers.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing A1

Write a simple sentence using 'corps' to talk about a group of students working together.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

The student corps worked on the project.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
reading A1

What does the medical corps do?

Read this passage:

My friend joined the army. He is now part of the medical corps. This corps helps injured soldiers. They are a very important group.

What does the medical corps do?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: They help injured soldiers.

The passage says, 'This corps helps injured soldiers.'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: They help injured soldiers.

The passage says, 'This corps helps injured soldiers.'

reading A1

What does Sarah's corps do?

Read this passage:

Sarah wants to help people. She joined the volunteer corps. This corps goes to different places to build houses. They work together as a team.

What does Sarah's corps do?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: They build houses.

The passage states, 'This corps goes to different places to build houses.'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: They build houses.

The passage states, 'This corps goes to different places to build houses.'

reading A1

What was the job of the fire corps?

Read this passage:

The fire corps arrived quickly. They had special trucks and tools. Their job was to put out the fire. Everyone in the corps worked together.

What was the job of the fire corps?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: To put out fires.

The passage clearly says, 'Their job was to put out the fire.'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: To put out fires.

The passage clearly says, 'Their job was to put out the fire.'

listening A2

Listen for the word 'corps' in the context of an army.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: The army corps moved quickly.
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening A2

Listen for 'corps' related to diplomacy.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: She joined the diplomatic corps.
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening A2

Listen for 'corps' referring to a group of engineers.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: A corps of engineers built the bridge.
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking A2

Read this aloud:

The peace corps helps people.

Focus: /kɔːr/

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking A2

Read this aloud:

He is in the medical corps.

Focus: /kɔːr/

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking A2

Read this aloud:

Many corps work together.

Focus: /kɔːr/

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
sentence order A2

Tap words below to build the sentence
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: The corps of dancers performed beautifully.

The word 'corps' refers to a group of people, in this case, dancers.

sentence order A2

Tap words below to build the sentence
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: He joined the peace corps to help people.

A 'peace corps' is a group of people who help in different countries.

sentence order A2

Tap words below to build the sentence
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: The army corps was ready for the mission.

An 'army corps' is a large part of an army.

fill blank B1

The diplomatic ____ works hard to maintain peace between countries.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: corps

A diplomatic corps is a group of diplomats representing their country abroad.

fill blank B1

Many young people join the Peace ____ to help communities in other parts of the world.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: Corps

The Peace Corps is an American volunteer program that provides social and economic development abroad.

fill blank B1

The army sent a special ____ of engineers to rebuild the bridge.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: corps

In this context, 'corps' refers to a specialized group within the army.

fill blank B1

She joined the medical ____ after finishing her studies at the university.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: corps

A medical corps is a group of people working in the medical field, often within an organization like the military.

fill blank B1

The dance ____ performed beautifully at the opening ceremony.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: corps

A dance corps is a group of dancers who perform together.

fill blank B1

Our company has a small but dedicated sales ____.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: corps

A sales corps refers to a group of people working in sales for a company.

multiple choice B1

The Marine _____ is a branch of the military known for its rigorous training.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: corps

The word 'corps' refers to a specialized group within the military.

multiple choice B1

After the earthquake, a medical _____ was sent to help the injured people.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: corps

A 'medical corps' is a group of medical professionals working together.

multiple choice B1

The diplomatic _____ represents their country in international relations.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: corps

The 'diplomatic corps' refers to a body of diplomats.

true false B1

A 'corps' can refer to a large unit of an army.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: True

The definition of 'corps' includes a large unit of an army.

true false B1

The word 'corps' is typically used for a single person.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: False

'Corps' refers to a group of people, not an individual.

true false B1

A 'peace corps' is a group of volunteers working on developmental projects.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: True

The Peace Corps is a real organization that fits the definition of 'corps'.

listening B1

Listen for the group attending the summit.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: The diplomatic corps attended the international summit.
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening B1

Listen for the organization she joined.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: She joined the Peace Corps after graduating from college.
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening B1

Listen for the military unit.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: The army corps was deployed to the disaster area.
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking B1

Read this aloud:

The medical corps provided essential care to the soldiers.

Focus: corps

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking B1

Read this aloud:

Our city has a dedicated corps of volunteers.

Focus: corps

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking B1

Read this aloud:

He is part of the engineering corps.

Focus: corps

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing B1

Imagine you are applying to a specialized program at a university. Write a short paragraph explaining why you are interested in joining their 'corps' of students. What qualities do you think are important for members of such a group?

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

I am very interested in joining the university's corps of students in the engineering program. I believe my strong problem-solving skills and dedication to teamwork would make me a valuable member. I am excited to work alongside other focused individuals.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing B1

Describe a time when you worked as part of a 'corps' or a team to achieve a common goal. What was your role, and what did you learn from the experience?

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

Last summer, I was part of a corps of volunteers who helped clean up a local park. My role was to organize the trash for recycling. I learned a lot about working together effectively and how a group can make a big difference in the community.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing B1

Write a short sentence using the word 'corps' to describe a group of people working in a humanitarian aid organization.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

The medical corps provided essential care to those affected by the disaster.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
reading B1

What is the main purpose of the Peace Corps?

Read this passage:

The Peace Corps is an independent agency and program of the United States Government that trains and deploys American volunteers to provide international development assistance. Since its founding in 1961, over 240,000 Americans have served in 142 countries, working in areas such as education, health, environment, and agriculture.

What is the main purpose of the Peace Corps?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: To provide international development assistance.

The passage clearly states that the Peace Corps 'trains and deploys American volunteers to provide international development assistance.'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: To provide international development assistance.

The passage clearly states that the Peace Corps 'trains and deploys American volunteers to provide international development assistance.'

reading B1

What is a common characteristic of an army corps?

Read this passage:

In many countries, an army 'corps' is a large military unit, typically consisting of two or more divisions. These units are often commanded by a lieutenant general and are capable of conducting prolonged operations independently. The term 'corps' can also refer to a specialized branch of an army, like the Marine Corps.

What is a common characteristic of an army corps?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: It is a large military unit capable of independent operations.

The passage states that an army corps 'is a large military unit... and are capable of conducting prolonged operations independently.'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: It is a large military unit capable of independent operations.

The passage states that an army corps 'is a large military unit... and are capable of conducting prolonged operations independently.'

reading B1

What is the role of the ballet corps?

Read this passage:

The ballet corps, or corps de ballet, is the group of dancers who perform together in an ensemble. They support the principal dancers and form the backbone of a ballet production. Their synchronized movements and precision are crucial for creating a cohesive and beautiful performance.

What is the role of the ballet corps?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: To support the principal dancers and perform as an ensemble.

The passage explains that the ballet corps 'support the principal dancers and form the backbone of a ballet production.'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: To support the principal dancers and perform as an ensemble.

The passage explains that the ballet corps 'support the principal dancers and form the backbone of a ballet production.'

fill blank B2

The medical ___ was quickly deployed to the disaster zone to provide aid.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: corps

A 'corps' refers to a specialized group of people, in this case, medical professionals. 'Corpse' means a dead body, 'core' means the central part, and 'coarse' means rough in texture.

fill blank B2

After years of dedicated service, she was accepted into the diplomatic ___.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: corps

The diplomatic 'corps' refers to the body of diplomats. 'Corpus' is a collection of writings, 'chords' are musical notes, and 'copes' means to deal effectively with something difficult.

fill blank B2

The general inspected the elite special forces ___ before their mission.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: corps

A 'corps' can also refer to a large unit of an army. 'Course' is a path or direction, 'cores' are central parts, and 'cause' is a reason.

fill blank B2

All members of the press ___ were granted access to the briefing.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: corps

The 'press corps' refers to the body of journalists. 'Carps' are fish, 'crops' are cultivated plants, and 'curves' are bent lines.

fill blank B2

The volunteer ___ worked tirelessly to clean up the park after the storm.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: corps

A 'corps' can be a body of persons working under common direction. 'Copes' means to deal with, 'cores' are central parts, and 'coops' are enclosures for poultry.

fill blank B2

She joined the Peace ___ to help communities in developing countries.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: corps

The Peace 'Corps' is a well-known organization. 'Crops' are cultivated plants, 'corpse' is a dead body, and 'cares' are concerns.

writing B2

Imagine you are a reporter covering a major natural disaster. Describe the role of a 'corps' of volunteers in the rescue efforts. Focus on their organization and teamwork.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

In the wake of the devastating earthquake, a dedicated corps of volunteers quickly mobilized. These organized individuals, working tirelessly as a cohesive unit, played a crucial role in the rescue efforts, demonstrating incredible teamwork and resilience.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing B2

You are writing a letter to a friend about your aspirations for a career in a specialized field. Explain how being part of a 'corps' in that field would benefit your professional development.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

Dear [Friend's Name], I've been thinking a lot about my career aspirations, especially in the field of [specific field, e.g., environmental science]. I truly believe that joining a corps of experts in this area would significantly benefit my professional development. Being part of such a specialized team would allow me to gain invaluable experience, learn from seasoned professionals, and contribute to meaningful projects, ultimately enhancing my expertise and career prospects. Best, [Your Name]

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing B2

Write a short paragraph describing a historical event where a military 'corps' played a pivotal role. Highlight their strategic importance and impact.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

During World War II, the British Expeditionary Force, a corps of highly trained soldiers, played a pivotal role in the early stages of the conflict. Their strategic deployment and courageous stand against overwhelming odds at Dunkirk, though a retreat, had a profound impact on the morale of the Allied forces and allowed for the continuation of the war effort.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
reading B2

What is the primary mission of the Peace Corps?

Read this passage:

The Peace Corps is a volunteer program run by the United States government. Its mission is to promote world peace and friendship by providing trained American volunteers to assist interested countries in meeting their need for trained manpower. These volunteers work in various sectors including education, health, business, and environmental protection, often forming a vital corps of support for local communities.

What is the primary mission of the Peace Corps?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: To promote world peace and friendship through volunteer service.

The passage explicitly states, 'Its mission is to promote world peace and friendship by providing trained American volunteers...'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: To promote world peace and friendship through volunteer service.

The passage explicitly states, 'Its mission is to promote world peace and friendship by providing trained American volunteers...'

reading B2

What is the primary function of a corps of executive assistants in a large corporation?

Read this passage:

In many large corporations, a 'corps' of executive assistants works closely with the senior management team. These individuals are highly organized, possess excellent communication skills, and are crucial for the smooth operation of daily business. Their coordinated efforts ensure that schedules are managed, meetings are arranged, and important documents are prepared efficiently.

What is the primary function of a corps of executive assistants in a large corporation?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: To support senior management with administrative tasks and ensure smooth operations.

The passage highlights that they 'work closely with the senior management team' and are 'crucial for the smooth operation of daily business,' managing schedules, meetings, and documents.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: To support senior management with administrative tasks and ensure smooth operations.

The passage highlights that they 'work closely with the senior management team' and are 'crucial for the smooth operation of daily business,' managing schedules, meetings, and documents.

reading B2

What is a key characteristic of the Marine Corps mentioned in the passage?

Read this passage:

The Marine Corps is a branch of the United States Armed Forces responsible for providing power projection from the sea, utilizing the mobility of the U.S. Navy to deliver rapidly deployable task forces. They are known for their rigorous training and their readiness to respond to crises around the globe, often operating as a spearhead in military operations.

What is a key characteristic of the Marine Corps mentioned in the passage?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: Their rigorous training and readiness for global crisis response.

The passage states, 'They are known for their rigorous training and their readiness to respond to crises around the globe.'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: Their rigorous training and readiness for global crisis response.

The passage states, 'They are known for their rigorous training and their readiness to respond to crises around the globe.'

fill blank C1

The diplomatic ___ was deployed to the conflict zone to facilitate peace negotiations.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: corps

In this context, 'corps' refers to a body of people engaged in a particular activity, in this case, diplomacy.

fill blank C1

After years of rigorous training, he was finally accepted into the elite Special Forces ___.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: corps

'Corps' is used here to denote a specialized military unit.

fill blank C1

The international aid ___ worked tirelessly to provide relief to the victims of the natural disaster.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: corps

Here, 'corps' refers to a group of people working together for a common humanitarian purpose.

fill blank C1

She aspired to join the medical ___ and dedicate her life to healing others.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: corps

This usage of 'corps' describes a professional group, specifically in the medical field.

fill blank C1

The engineering ___ was responsible for designing and constructing the new bridge.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: corps

'Corps' is used to identify a specialized group of professionals, in this case, engineers.

fill blank C1

Upon graduation, many students hoped to be recruited into the peace ___ for international service.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: corps

In this sentence, 'corps' refers to an organization of volunteers, like the Peace Corps.

multiple choice C2

The diplomatic _____ is often at the forefront of international negotiations, representing their nation's interests.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: corps

The term 'corps' refers to a specialized group of people, such as a diplomatic body.

multiple choice C2

After years of rigorous training, he was finally accepted into the elite Marine _____.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: corps

'Corps' is the correct term for a unit of an army, such as the Marine Corps.

multiple choice C2

The medical _____ worked tirelessly to address the health crisis in the affected region.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: corps

A 'corps' can also refer to a body of people under common direction, like a medical corps.

true false C2

The word 'corps' can refer to a large unit of an army.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: True

The definition of 'corps' explicitly states it can refer to a large unit of an army.

true false C2

A 'corps' always refers to a group of people who are no longer alive.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: False

The word 'corps' refers to a specialized group of living people, while 'corpse' refers to a dead body.

true false C2

The term 'corps' is exclusively used in a military context.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: False

While often associated with the military, 'corps' can also refer to specialized groups in other professional fields, such as the diplomatic corps or press corps.

/ 78 correct

Perfect score!

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