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B1 noun #7 most common 12 min read

immortals

Top 7

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips immortals in 30 Seconds

Explanation immortals in your Level:

The word 'immortals' is a special word for things that never die. Usually, everything that is alive will die one day. Flowers die, animals die, and people die. But in stories, some things live forever. These things are called 'immortals.' For example, in old stories from Greece, the gods like Zeus never get old and never die. They are immortals. You can think of it like this: 'mortal' means you will die. 'Im-mortal' means 'not mortal,' so you will not die. Most of the time, we use this word when we talk about gods or magic people in movies. If you see a movie about a person who is 500 years old and still looks young, that person might be an immortal. It is a big, important word, but the meaning is simple: no death. You can say 'The gods are immortals.' This is a plural word, so we use it for more than one person or being. If you want to talk about just one, you say 'He is an immortal.' In very simple English, you can just say 'they live forever.' But 'immortals' is a better word for stories and books. It makes the story sound more exciting and grand. When you learn this word, you can understand many stories about heroes and gods. It is a good word to know for fantasy books and movies.

At the A2 level, you can understand 'immortals' as a noun used to describe a group of beings who do not experience death or aging. This word is very common in mythology and fantasy stories. When you read about the Greek or Roman gods, they are often called 'the immortals.' This is because they are different from humans, who are 'mortals.' Humans grow old and eventually die, but immortals stay the same forever. You might also hear this word in movies about vampires or superheroes. For example, 'The vampires in the movie are immortals; they have lived for centuries.' This sentence shows that they don't die of old age. Another way people use this word is for very famous people. If a soccer player is so good that people will talk about him for 100 years, someone might say, 'He is one of the immortals of soccer.' This doesn't mean he will live forever, but his name and his fame will live forever. It is a way to say someone is a 'legend.' When you use 'immortals,' remember it is usually plural. You are talking about a group. If you want to describe one person, you can say 'He is immortal' (adjective) or 'He is an immortal' (noun). It is a strong word that adds a lot of feeling to your sentences. It makes things sound more important and special than just saying 'famous' or 'old.'

As a B1 learner, you should recognize 'immortals' as a noun that carries both literal and metaphorical meanings. Literally, it refers to entities—often divine or supernatural—that are exempt from death. This is a staple term in the study of classical mythology, where 'the immortals' refers specifically to the gods of Olympus. In this context, the word highlights the ontological gap between the divine and the human (the mortals). You will also encounter 'immortals' in historical contexts, most notably when referring to the 'Ten Thousand Immortals,' an elite military unit of the ancient Persian Empire. They were called this because their numbers were always maintained at exactly ten thousand; as soon as one soldier died or fell ill, another was ready to take his place, creating the illusion that the unit never diminished. Metaphorically, 'immortals' is used to describe individuals who have achieved such enduring fame or influence that they seem to transcend time. This is common in sports, literature, and the arts. For example, 'The hall of fame is where the immortals of basketball are honored.' Here, the word signifies that their legacy is permanent. When using the word, be careful with its form. 'Immortal' can be an adjective ('an immortal soul') or a noun ('he is an immortal'), while 'immortals' is the plural noun. It is a high-register word, meaning it is often used in formal writing, epic storytelling, or serious discussions about legacy and history.

At the B2 level, the word 'immortals' should be understood as a sophisticated noun used to categorize beings or individuals who transcend the natural limitations of mortality. In literature and mythology, 'the immortals' serves as a collective noun for the gods, emphasizing their eternal nature and their detachment from the ephemeral concerns of human life. This usage often carries a tone of reverence or, conversely, a critique of the gods' indifference to human suffering. In historical discourse, the term is specifically applied to the elite infantry of the Persian Empire, where it functions as a proper noun (The Immortals). Here, the name was a psychological tool designed to project an image of an inexhaustible and undying force. Metaphorically, 'immortals' is a powerful rhetorical device used to elevate human achievement to a divine level. When we speak of 'the immortals of the silver screen' or 'literary immortals,' we are suggesting that their contributions have become a permanent part of human culture, effectively granting them a form of secular immortality. This usage is common in sophisticated journalism and academic essays. You should also be aware of the word's presence in French culture, where 'Les Immortels' refers to the forty members of the Académie Française, tasked with preserving the French language. Their 'immortality' is symbolic of the enduring nature of the language itself. When incorporating 'immortals' into your own writing, consider the register; it is a grand, evocative word that is best suited for contexts involving history, legend, or exceptional human legacy.

For C1 learners, 'immortals' is a term that invites nuanced exploration of themes such as permanence, legacy, and the human condition. While its primary definition remains 'beings that live forever,' its application in various discourses reveals a complex interplay between the literal and the symbolic. In classical studies, the 'immortals' are not merely undying; they represent fixed archetypes and universal forces, contrasted with the 'mortals' whose lives are defined by change and finitude. This dichotomy is central to understanding ancient Greek and Roman worldviews. In a more modern, secular context, the term is frequently employed in the 'cult of celebrity' or the 'canonization' of artists and thinkers. To be labeled one of the 'immortals' is to be granted a place in the collective memory of humanity, a status that is often debated and contested by critics and historians. This 'cultural immortality' is a recurring theme in postmodernist critiques of history and fame. Furthermore, in the field of transhumanism and speculative science, 'immortals' may refer to a hypothetical future class of humans who have utilized technology to halt biological aging. This brings up ethical and sociological questions: would a society of immortals become stagnant? How would the definition of 'human' change? When using the word, you should be sensitive to these layers of meaning. Whether you are discussing the 'Ten Thousand Immortals' of Cyrus the Great or the 'immortals' of the French Academy, the word always implies a transcendence of the 'mortal coil.' It is a term of high prestige, and its use should be calibrated to reflect the gravity and scale of the subject matter.

At the C2 level, 'immortals' is a word that can be wielded with precision to discuss the philosophical and ontological implications of eternal existence. It functions as a potent signifier in the discourse of existentialism, where the 'immortals'—whether they be the gods of antiquity or the idealized figures of historical canon—serve as a foil to the 'Dasein' or the 'being-towards-death' that characterizes human existence. The concept of the 'immortals' allows for a deep dive into the 'pathos of distance,' a term coined by Nietzsche to describe the gap between the elite (the 'immortals' of spirit and achievement) and the masses. In literary criticism, you might analyze how the 'immortals' in a text represent the preservation of values or the ossification of tradition. For instance, the 'immortals' of the Académie Française are not just individuals but guardians of a linguistic heritage, their title reflecting a belief in the immutable essence of language. In the realm of science and ethics, the term is increasingly relevant to discussions on radical life extension. Here, 'immortals' is used to describe the potential subjects of a post-biological era, prompting rigorous debate on the nature of identity, the necessity of death for evolutionary progress, and the potential for extreme social stratification. As a C2 user, you should be able to use 'immortals' to evoke these complex associations, moving seamlessly between the mythological, the historical, and the speculative. The word is not merely a synonym for 'undying beings' but a gateway to discussing the very limits of what it means to be human and the enduring quest for significance in a transient universe.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

immortals in 30 Seconds

Immortals are beings that live forever and do not experience death, commonly appearing in mythology, fantasy, and stories about gods.
The term is also used metaphorically to describe people whose fame, talent, or influence is so great that they will never be forgotten.
Historically, 'The Immortals' was the name of an elite army in ancient Persia, known for always maintaining a strength of 10,000 soldiers.
In modern English, the word adds a sense of epic scale and permanence to descriptions of legendary figures in sports, art, and literature.

The term immortals serves as a profound linguistic bridge between the realm of the divine and the pinnacle of human achievement. At its most literal level, it refers to beings that are exempt from death, a concept that has fascinated humanity since the dawn of consciousness. In the context of ancient mythologies, such as those of Greece, Rome, or Mesopotamia, the immortals were the gods who resided in celestial or subterranean realms, possessing powers far beyond human capability and, crucially, a lifespan that never ended. When we use this word today, we are often invoking this sense of awe and permanence.

Mythological Context: In Homeric epics, the immortals are contrasted sharply with 'mortals' (humans), highlighting the fragility of human life compared to the eternal nature of the gods. This usage is common in academic discussions of literature and history.

Beyond the literal meaning of living forever, the word has evolved into a powerful metaphor for legacy. In the modern era, we frequently refer to individuals who have achieved such a high level of fame, skill, or influence that their names will never be forgotten as immortals. This is particularly prevalent in the worlds of sports, art, and literature. For instance, a baseball player who breaks a seemingly impossible record or a poet whose words are still recited centuries after their death might be inducted into a 'hall of immortals.'

The hall of fame is reserved for the true immortals of the game, those whose legends will never fade.

The word carries a weight of solemnity and respect. You wouldn't use it for someone who is merely famous for a short time; it is reserved for those whose impact is perceived as permanent. In fantasy and science fiction, the term takes on a more literal but often biological or technological meaning. Here, immortals might be vampires, elves, or even advanced AI entities that have conquered the aging process. This genre-specific usage allows writers to explore the psychological burden of living forever, often portraying immortality not as a gift, but as a curse of watching everyone you love perish.

Historical Reference: The 'Ten Thousand Immortals' was an elite heavy infantry unit in the Achaemenid Empire. They were called this because their number was always kept exactly at 10,000; if one died, another immediately took his place, giving the illusion of an undying army.

The Persian immortals marched with a precision that terrified their enemies.

In the twilight of his career, the composer was finally recognized among the musical immortals.

Ancient myths tell of immortals who interfered in the lives of men for their own amusement.

The philosopher argued that only through art can humans truly become immortals.

Cultural Nuance: In French culture, the members of the Académie Française are known as 'les immortels' because of the academy's motto, 'À l'immortalité' (To immortality), referring to the enduring nature of the French language.

Ultimately, whether discussing the gods of Olympus, the elite soldiers of Persia, or the legends of the silver screen, 'immortals' signifies a transcendence of the natural limit of time. It is a word that captures our deepest fears of death and our highest aspirations for lasting significance.

Using the word immortals correctly requires an understanding of its weight and the specific context—be it mythological, historical, or metaphorical. Because it is a plural noun, it usually functions as the subject or object of a sentence describing a collective group.

Subject Position: 'The immortals looked down from their mountain with indifference.' Here, the word is the actor, performing an action that emphasizes their superior status.

In metaphorical usage, you will often find it paired with words like 'literary,' 'sporting,' or 'artistic.' This helps the reader understand that you aren't talking about literal gods, but about people who have achieved legendary status.

Shakespeare and Dante are among the literary immortals whose works continue to shape our world.

Notice how the addition of 'literary' clarifies the domain of their immortality. Another common pattern is using the word after a preposition like 'among' or 'between.' This places a specific individual within the elite group. In fantasy writing, the word is often used to establish world-building rules. You might describe the physical characteristics or the social structures of these beings.

Unlike the short-lived humans, the immortals of the Northern Woods did not value gold or land.

This contrast highlights the difference in perspective between those who die and those who do not.

The Definite Article: Using 'the' before 'immortals' (The Immortals) often refers to a specific, well-known group, like the Persian army or the Greek gods. Without 'the,' it refers to the concept of undying beings more generally.

Do you believe that science will one day create a race of immortals?

In this sentence, the absence of 'the' makes the question more theoretical.

Common Verbs: Immortals are often said to 'dwell,' 'reside,' 'walk,' 'observe,' or 'intervene.' These verbs suggest a detached or superior existence.

The ancient immortals were said to dwell in the highest peaks of the Himalayas.

To be counted among the immortals, one must sacrifice the comforts of a normal life.

When writing about the Persian 'Immortals,' always capitalize the word if you are referring to the specific military unit. This distinguishes them from the general concept of undying beings. In summary, use 'immortals' when you want to evoke a sense of timelessness, whether through supernatural means or through the enduring power of human legacy. It is a high-register word that adds dignity and scale to your writing.

You are most likely to encounter the word immortals in four primary domains: classical education, speculative fiction, high-level sports journalism, and historical documentaries. In a classroom setting, particularly during a history or literature lecture, the word is indispensable for discussing the polytheistic religions of the past. Teachers will refer to the 'Greek Immortals' to distinguish the gods of Olympus from the heroes who, though powerful, were still destined to die. This contrast is a fundamental theme in Western literature.

In Literature: When reading 'The Iliad' or 'The Odyssey,' the word appears frequently to describe the gods' perspective on human suffering, which they often view as a fleeting drama.

In the realm of entertainment, especially in movies and video games, 'immortals' is a popular title or character class. Think of the movie 'Immortals' (2011) or the game 'Immortals Fenyx Rising.' In these contexts, the word is used to signal epic scale, magic, and high stakes. It immediately tells the audience that the story involves beings with extraordinary lifespans and powers.

The trailer for the new fantasy RPG promises a battle between the immortals and the rising tide of darkness.

Sports commentary provides a fascinating metaphorical use of the word. When a player like Michael Jordan, Pelé, or Serena Williams retires, commentators often say they have 'joined the immortals.' This doesn't mean they won't die; it means their records and their impact on the sport are now considered permanent and unassailable. Historical documentaries, particularly those focusing on the Persian Empire, will use the term to describe the 'Ten Thousand Immortals.' Narrators often use a dramatic tone when describing this unit to emphasize their psychological effect on their enemies.

The sight of the immortals cresting the hill was enough to break the morale of the Greek defenders.

In Philosophy: Philosophers like Plato discussed the 'immortals' (the gods or the forms) to explore the nature of the soul and the ideal world versus the material world.

You might also hear the word in news reports about the 'Académie Française.' Because the members are called 'The Immortals,' any news about a new member being elected or a member passing away will use this specific terminology.

The election of the first woman to the ranks of the immortals was a historic moment for the Academy.

Science fiction often asks if we would truly want to be immortals if it meant losing our humanity.

The museum's new exhibit features statues of the Hindu immortals.

In all these cases, the word 'immortals' elevates the subject matter, suggesting a level of importance that transcends the everyday and the temporary.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make with immortals is confusing it with the adjective 'immortal' or the abstract noun 'immortality.' While they all share the same root, their grammatical functions are distinct. You cannot say 'He is an immortals'; you must say 'He is an immortal' (adjective/singular noun) or 'They are immortals' (plural noun).

Confusion with 'Immoral': This is a common phonetic mistake. 'Immoral' means lacking a moral sense or violating moral principles (bad behavior). 'Immortal' means living forever. They sound similar but have completely different meanings.

Incorrect: The gods were very immoral, so they never died. (This implies they didn't die because they were bad, which makes no sense).

Another mistake is using 'immortals' when you actually mean 'invincible' or 'invulnerable.' An immortal being cannot die of old age or natural causes, but in many mythologies, they can still be wounded or even 'killed' in a spiritual sense. An 'invincible' being cannot be defeated in battle, and an 'invulnerable' being cannot be physically hurt. Learners also sometimes struggle with the metaphorical versus literal use. If you call a group of famous scientists 'the immortals,' you must ensure the context makes it clear you are talking about their fame. If you use it in a scientific paper about biology without clarification, the reader might think you are discussing a species that doesn't age (like certain types of jellyfish).

Overuse: Don't use 'immortals' for every famous person. Reserve it for those whose impact is truly foundational or generational. Calling a pop star who had one hit song an 'immortal' sounds hyperbolic and incorrect.

Correct: The immortals of the Renaissance, like Da Vinci and Michelangelo, changed art forever.

Incorrect: These immortals will be dead in eighty years. (This is a logical contradiction; if they are immortals, they won't die).

Finally, avoid using 'immortals' as a synonym for 'ghosts' or 'spirits.' While ghosts are 'undead,' they are usually defined by having already died. Immortals are defined by the fact that they *do not* die. This is a subtle but important distinction in both mythology and creative writing. By keeping these distinctions in mind, you can use 'immortals' to add a sense of grandeur and precision to your English.

When you want to describe beings or people who last forever, immortals is a strong choice, but several other words might be more precise depending on your specific meaning.

Deities: This is the most direct synonym for mythological immortals. However, 'deities' specifically implies a religious context and the possession of divine powers. All deities are usually immortals, but not all immortals (like vampires or elves) are deities.

Legends: This is the best alternative for the metaphorical use of 'immortals.' When you say 'He is a legend,' you mean his story will live on. 'Legends' is slightly less formal and more common in everyday conversation than 'immortals.'

The immortals of jazz are celebrated every year at the festival. (Very formal/grand).

The legends of jazz are celebrated every year at the festival. (More natural/common).

The Undying: This is a common term in fantasy literature (like J.R.R. Tolkien's work). It carries a more mysterious, slightly eerie tone than 'immortals.' It suggests a state of being that resists the natural cycle of life and death.

Greats: In sports and entertainment, 'the greats' is a common, less dramatic way to refer to 'the immortals.' 'He is one of the all-time greats' is a standard phrase.

The immortals of philosophy often disagreed on the nature of truth.

The titans of industry were once considered immortals, but their empires eventually crumbled.

In scientific contexts, you might use 'biologically immortal organisms.' This is a very specific technical term and shouldn't be shortened to just 'immortals' unless the context is already established. For example, 'The hydra is among the few biological immortals known to science.' This uses the word as a noun to describe a category of life. By choosing the right alternative, you can tailor your message to be as impactful as possible.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

Neutral

Informal

Child friendly

Slang

Fun Fact

The 'Ten Thousand Immortals' of Persia were actually called 'Anusiya' (Companions) in their own language. The Greeks likely misheard this or translated it as 'Athanatoi' (Immortals) because the unit's size never changed.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ɪˈmɔː.təlz/

US /ɪˈmɔːr.təlz/

The stress is on the second syllable: im-MOR-tals.

Rhymes With

portals mortals chortles quartals sortals tortals orbitals recitals

Common Errors

Stressing the first syllable (IM-mortals).
Pronouncing the 't' too sharply like 'tals' instead of the softer 'təlz'.
Confusing the pronunciation with 'immoral' (ih-MOR-uhl).
Adding an extra syllable (im-mor-ta-lize).
Failing to pronounce the final 'z' sound clearly.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 4/5

The word is easy to recognize but its metaphorical uses in literature can be complex.

Writing 5/5

Requires careful distinction between the noun and adjective forms.

Speaking 3/5

Pronunciation is straightforward but the stress must be correct.

Listening 4/5

Can be confused with 'immoral' in fast speech.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

mortal death forever god legend

Learn Next

immortality longevity legacy pantheon canonization

Advanced

ontological ephemeral transhumanism metaphysics apotheosis

Grammar to Know

Plural Noun Agreement

The immortals *are* (not is) coming.

Collective Nouns

The group of immortals *was* seen on the hill.

Adjective vs Noun

He is an immortal (noun) being. He is immortal (adjective).

Capitalization of Proper Units

The Persian Immortals (capitalized) were elite.

Prepositional Phrases

He stood *among* the immortals.

Examples by Level

The gods in the story are immortals.

Les dieux dans l'histoire sont des immortels.

Plural noun used after 'are'.

Immortals never die.

Les immortels ne meurent jamais.

Subject of the sentence.

Are there any immortals in this movie?

Y a-t-il des immortels dans ce film ?

Interrogative form with plural noun.

He wants to live like the immortals.

Il veut vivre comme les immortels.

Used after the preposition 'like'.

The immortals live on a high mountain.

Les immortels vivent sur une haute montagne.

Definite article 'the' used for a specific group.

Many stories are about immortals and heroes.

Beaucoup d'histoires parlent d'immortels et de héros.

Object of the preposition 'about'.

I saw a book called 'The Immortals'.

J'ai vu un livre intitulé 'Les Immortels'.

Used as a proper title.

Immortals do not get old.

Les immortels ne vieillissent pas.

Simple present tense for a general truth.

The Greek immortals lived on Mount Olympus.

Les immortels grecs vivaient sur le mont Olympe.

Adjective 'Greek' modifying the noun 'immortals'.

Vampires are often described as immortals in books.

Les vampires sont souvent décrits comme des immortels dans les livres.

Passive voice construction.

She is one of the immortals of the music world.

Elle est l'une des immortelles du monde de la musique.

Metaphorical use for a famous person.

The king wanted to find the secret of the immortals.

Le roi voulait trouver le secret des immortels.

Genitive relationship ('secret of the...').

In this game, you can play as one of the immortals.

Dans ce jeu, vous pouvez incarner l'un des immortels.

Used in a gaming context.

The immortals watched the humans from the sky.

Les immortels regardaient les humains depuis le ciel.

Contrasting 'immortals' with 'humans'.

Are the immortals always happy in these myths?

Les immortels sont-ils toujours heureux dans ces mythes ?

Question about the state of being.

The army was named 'The Immortals' because it was so large.

L'armée s'appelait 'Les Immortels' parce qu'elle était très nombreuse.

Historical reference.

The Persian Immortals were feared throughout the ancient world.

Les Immortels perses étaient craints dans tout le monde antique.

Proper noun referring to a specific military unit.

By winning the championship, they joined the immortals of the sport.

En gagnant le championnat, ils ont rejoint les immortels du sport.

Metaphorical use for lasting legacy.

The poet believed his words would make him one of the immortals.

Le poète croyait que ses mots feraient de lui l'un des immortels.

Refers to literary fame.

Mythology often portrays immortals as being jealous of mortal love.

La mythologie dépeint souvent les immortels comme étant jaloux de l'amour mortel.

Gerund phrase 'as being jealous'.

Scientists are studying certain jellyfish that act like biological immortals.

Les scientifiques étudient certaines méduses qui agissent comme des immortels biologiques.

Scientific/biological context.

The museum has a special room dedicated to the immortals of the Renaissance.

Le musée possède une salle spéciale dédiée aux immortels de la Renaissance.

Refers to historical figures of great influence.

Unlike us, the immortals do not have to worry about the passage of time.

Contrairement à nous, les immortels n'ont pas à s'inquiéter du passage du temps.

Contrastive prepositional phrase 'Unlike us'.

The legends of the immortals have been passed down for generations.

Les légendes des immortels ont été transmises de génération en génération.

Passive voice 'have been passed down'.

The members of the French Academy are known as 'The Immortals'.

Les membres de l'Académie française sont connus sous le nom de 'Les Immortels'.

Specific cultural reference to the Académie Française.

The novel explores the loneliness that the immortals might feel.

Le roman explore la solitude que les immortels pourraient ressentir.

Exploration of a psychological state.

He was inducted into the hall of immortals after forty years of service.

Il a été intronisé au panthéon des immortels après quarante ans de service.

Induction into a prestigious group.

The immortals of philosophy, such as Socrates and Kant, still influence us today.

Les immortels de la philosophie, tels que Socrate et Kant, nous influencent encore aujourd'hui.

Appositive phrase providing examples.

Some transhumanists believe we can eventually become immortals through technology.

Certains transhumanistes croient que nous pourrons un jour devenir des immortels grâce à la technologie.

Speculative/scientific context.

The play depicts the immortals as bored and capricious beings.

La pièce dépeint les immortels comme des êtres blasés et capricieux.

Descriptive adjectives 'bored and capricious'.

Their names are etched among the immortals on the monument.

Leurs noms sont gravés parmi les immortels sur le monument.

Prepositional phrase 'among the immortals'.

The epic poem contrasts the hubris of men with the power of the immortals.

Le poème épique contraste l'orgueil des hommes avec le pouvoir des immortels.

Thematic contrast in literature.

The dichotomy between the ephemeral mortals and the static immortals is a central trope.

La dichotomie entre les mortels éphémères et les immortels statiques est un trope central.

Academic vocabulary ('dichotomy', 'ephemeral', 'trope').

The 'Ten Thousand Immortals' functioned as both a military elite and a propaganda tool.

Les 'Dix Mille Immortels' fonctionnaient à la fois comme une élite militaire et un outil de propagande.

Historical analysis.

In the pantheon of cinematic immortals, Hitchcock holds a unique position.

Dans le panthéon des immortels du cinéma, Hitchcock occupe une position unique.

Metaphorical use in arts criticism.

The author deconstructs the myth of the immortals, showing them to be deeply flawed.

L'auteur déconstruit le mythe des immortels, les montrant comme étant profondément imparfaits.

Literary deconstruction.

The prospect of a society of immortals raises profound ethical dilemmas regarding resource allocation.

La perspective d'une société d'immortels soulève de profonds dilemmes éthiques concernant l'allocation des ressources.

Complex sentence structure with ethical focus.

The 'immortals' of the French Academy serve as the self-appointed guardians of linguistic purity.

Les 'immortels' de l'Académie française servent de gardiens autoproclamés de la pureté linguistique.

Socio-linguistic commentary.

To be numbered among the immortals is the ultimate, if often elusive, goal of the ambitious artist.

Être compté parmi les immortels est l'objectif ultime, bien que souvent insaisissable, de l'artiste ambitieux.

Infinitive phrase as subject.

The immortals of the ancient world were often anthropomorphic, reflecting human vices on a grand scale.

Les immortels du monde antique étaient souvent anthropomorphes, reflétant les vices humains à grande échelle.

Descriptive adjective 'anthropomorphic'.

The ontological status of the immortals in Greek tragedy serves to illuminate the precariousness of human agency.

Le statut ontologique des immortels dans la tragédie grecque sert à éclairer la précarité de l'action humaine.

High-level philosophical and literary terminology.

Nietzsche’s 'pathos of distance' is exemplified by the detachment of the immortals from the 'herd'.

Le 'pathos de la distance' de Nietzsche est illustré par le détachement des immortels par rapport au 'troupeau'.

Reference to philosophical concepts.

The canonization of certain authors as 'immortals' often overlooks the socio-political factors of their time.

La canonisation de certains auteurs en tant qu' 'immortels' néglige souvent les facteurs socio-politiques de leur époque.

Critique of historical canonization.

The transition from literal immortals to secular legends reflects a broader shift in Western metaphysics.

La transition des immortels littéraux aux légendes séculières reflète un changement plus large dans la métaphysique occidentale.

Analysis of cultural and metaphysical shifts.

In the realm of speculative ethics, the advent of technological immortals necessitates a re-evaluation of the social contract.

Dans le domaine de l'éthique spéculative, l'avènement des immortels technologiques nécessite une réévaluation du contrat social.

Formal academic argumentation.

The immortals of the Académie Française embody the tension between linguistic evolution and institutional stasis.

Les immortels de l'Académie française incarnent la tension entre l'évolution linguistique et la stase institutionnelle.

Metaphorical analysis of an institution.

The poet’s quest for a place among the immortals is portrayed as a sublime yet ultimately tragic endeavor.

La quête du poète pour une place parmi les immortels est dépeinte comme une entreprise sublime mais finalement tragique.

Literary analysis of character motivation.

By invoking the immortals, the orator sought to imbue his speech with a sense of cosmic significance.

En invoquant les immortels, l'orateur cherchait à imprégner son discours d'un sentiment de signification cosmique.

Analysis of rhetorical strategy.

Common Collocations

literary immortals

sporting immortals

ancient immortals

the ranks of the immortals

mythological immortals

hall of immortals

divine immortals

become immortals

among the immortals

land of the immortals

Common Phrases

Join the immortals

— To achieve such great success that one will be remembered forever.

With this Oscar win, she joins the immortals of Hollywood.

The Ten Thousand Immortals

— The elite military unit of the ancient Persian Empire.

The Ten Thousand Immortals were the backbone of the Persian army.

One of the immortals

— A member of an elite group of legendary figures.

He is considered one of the immortals of classical music.

The immortals of Olympus

— The twelve major gods of Greek mythology.

The immortals of Olympus were known for their complex relationships.

Inducted among the immortals

— To be officially recognized as a legendary figure in a specific field.

The scientist was inducted among the immortals of the Royal Society.

A battle of immortals

— A conflict between extremely powerful or long-lived beings.

The movie features a battle of immortals that spans centuries.

The path to the immortals

— The difficult journey or process to achieve eternal fame.

Hard work and genius are the only path to the immortals.

Cursed to be immortals

— The idea that living forever is a negative experience.

In many stories, characters are cursed to be immortals and watch their friends die.

The council of immortals

— A group of undying beings who make important decisions.

The council of immortals met once every thousand years.

Like the immortals of old

— Comparing someone to the legendary figures of the past.

He fought with a strength like the immortals of old.

Often Confused With

immortals vs immoral

Means 'bad' or 'wicked'. It sounds similar but has no relation to living forever.

immortals vs immortality

This is the abstract concept of living forever, not the beings themselves.

immortals vs invincible

Means 'cannot be defeated'. An immortal can be defeated or hurt, but they don't die of age.

Idioms & Expressions

"To join the immortals"

— To die, but in a way that ensures your name will live on through your work or legacy.

The great novelist has finally joined the immortals.

literary

"A place among the immortals"

— A guaranteed spot in history or the collective memory of a culture.

His discovery earned him a place among the immortals of science.

formal

"The hall of immortals"

— A metaphorical or literal place (like a Hall of Fame) where legends are honored.

He was welcomed into the hall of immortals by his peers.

neutral

"To play god with the immortals"

— To interfere with forces or people that are far more powerful or enduring than oneself.

The young politician was trying to play god with the immortals of the party.

metaphorical

"Food of the immortals"

— Something that provides extraordinary health, longevity, or pleasure (often referring to ambrosia).

The chocolate cake was so good it felt like the food of the immortals.

informal/humorous

"The sleep of the immortals"

— A very long or deep sleep, or the state of being forgotten for a long time before being rediscovered.

The ancient city had been in the sleep of the immortals for millennia.

poetic

"To speak with the immortals"

— To read or study the works of great thinkers from the past.

In the library, I feel I can speak with the immortals.

literary

"The gaze of the immortals"

— The feeling of being judged by history or by a higher power.

He felt the gaze of the immortals upon him as he stepped onto the stage.

dramatic

"To drink with the immortals"

— To experience a moment of supreme triumph or celebration.

After winning the gold medal, he felt he was drinking with the immortals.

metaphorical

"The laughter of the immortals"

— The idea that the universe or the gods find human struggles amusing.

When his plans failed again, he could almost hear the laughter of the immortals.

philosophical

Easily Confused

immortals vs immortal

It can be both an adjective and a singular noun.

Use 'immortal' as an adjective (immortal soul) or singular noun (he is an immortal). Use 'immortals' for the plural.

The immortal gods are known as the immortals.

immortals vs mortals

It is the direct opposite and looks very similar.

Mortals die; immortals do not. The 'im-' prefix is the key.

Mortals fear death, but immortals do not.

immortals vs deities

Both refer to gods.

Deities are always religious/divine. Immortals can be secular (legends) or fantasy beings (vampires).

The deities of Egypt were considered immortals.

immortals vs eternal

Both mean lasting forever.

'Eternal' is an adjective describing time or a state. 'Immortals' are the beings themselves.

The immortals have eternal life.

immortals vs undead

Both don't stay dead.

Undead (like zombies) have died and come back. Immortals never died in the first place.

Zombies are undead, but the gods are immortals.

Sentence Patterns

The [Noun] are immortals.

The gods are immortals.

They are the immortals of [Place/Field].

They are the immortals of the forest.

To be one of the immortals, you must [Verb].

To be one of the immortals, you must work hard.

Inducted into the ranks of the immortals, [Name]...

Inducted into the ranks of the immortals, Michael Jordan changed the game.

The dichotomy between [Noun] and the immortals...

The dichotomy between mortal suffering and the immortals is clear.

By invoking the concept of the immortals, the author...

By invoking the concept of the immortals, the author critiques human vanity.

The [Adjective] immortals [Verb]...

The ancient immortals watched the world.

Neither [Noun] nor the immortals could [Verb]...

Neither the king nor the immortals could stop the storm.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Common in literature, history, and sports; rare in everyday casual speech.

Common Mistakes

He is an immortals. → He is an immortal.
'Immortals' is plural. Use the singular form for one person.
The gods were very immoral. → The gods were immortals.
'Immoral' means bad behavior. 'Immortals' means they don't die. Don't confuse the two!
I want to achieve immortals. → I want to achieve immortality.
'Immortals' are the people; 'immortality' is the state of living forever.
The immortals army was strong. → The army of Immortals was strong.
When referring to the Persian unit, use 'The Immortals' as a proper noun.
He is a famous immortals. → He is one of the immortals.
You cannot use 'a' with the plural 'immortals'.

Tips

Watch the Plural

Remember that 'immortals' is the plural noun. If you are talking about just one person, use 'an immortal'.

Register Matters

Use 'immortals' for epic or formal contexts. For everyday talk about famous people, 'legends' is usually better.

Double 'M'

Always spell 'immortals' with two 'm's. It comes from 'in-' + 'mortal'.

Cultural Specificity

When talking about history, 'The Immortals' almost always refers to the Persians. In literature, it's usually the Greeks.

Metaphorical Use

When using it metaphorically, add a field like 'sporting immortals' or 'literary immortals' to be clear.

Stress the Middle

The stress is on the 'MOR' part: im-MOR-tals. Don't say IM-mortals.

Avoid Clichés

Try not to use 'immortals' for every famous person; save it for the truly great ones to keep the word's power.

Listen for Context

If you hear 'immortals' in a movie, it's likely literal. In a news report, it's likely metaphorical.

Check the Article

'The Immortals' often refers to a specific, famous group. 'Immortals' without 'the' is more general.

Root Word

Focus on the root 'mort' (death). Immortals = No death.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'IM' as 'I'M' and 'MORTAL' as 'going to die'. So, 'IM-MORTAL' is the opposite: 'I'M NOT going to die'. The 'S' at the end makes it a group of people.

Visual Association

Imagine a group of people standing on a mountain peak while the sun rises and sets 1,000 times in a few seconds, but they never move or change.

Word Web

Gods Legends Vampires Eternity Legacy Persian Army Hall of Fame Undying

Challenge

Try to name three 'immortals' from history, three from mythology, and three from modern pop culture. Write a sentence for each group.

Word Origin

The word comes from the Latin 'immortalis', which is composed of the prefix 'in-' (meaning 'not') and 'mortalis' (meaning 'subject to death'). It entered Middle English via Old French.

Original meaning: Literally 'not dying' or 'undying'.

Indo-European (Latinate branch).

Cultural Context

Be careful when using 'immortals' in a strictly religious context; some faiths may find it inappropriate to compare humans to the divine.

In the US and UK, 'immortals' is most commonly heard in sports (Hall of Fame) or in the context of high-fantasy literature like 'Lord of the Rings'.

The movie 'Immortals' (2011) about Theseus and the Greek gods. The 'Ten Thousand Immortals' in the movie '300'. The 'Immortal' song by various artists, often about lasting fame.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Mythology Class

The Greek immortals
Divine status
Mount Olympus
Nectar and ambrosia

Sports Commentary

Hall of Fame
Joining the greats
Unforgettable legacy
Record-breaking career

Fantasy Gaming

Immortal class
Undying warriors
Ancient powers
Eternal life

History Documentary

The Persian army
Elite infantry
Ten thousand strong
Psychological warfare

Literary Criticism

The literary canon
Enduring influence
Universal themes
Transcending time

Conversation Starters

"If you could be one of the immortals, would you choose to live forever?"

"Which athlete do you think deserves to be among the immortals of their sport?"

"Why do you think ancient cultures were so obsessed with the stories of immortals?"

"Do you think technology will ever allow humans to become biological immortals?"

"If you had to pick one book that will be read by the immortals of the future, which one would it be?"

Journal Prompts

Write about a day in the life of one of the immortals who is bored with living forever.

Discuss the difference between being famous today and being one of the 'immortals' of history.

Imagine you are a soldier in the Persian 'Ten Thousand Immortals'. Describe your training and your mindset.

Should we try to become immortals through science? What are the risks to our society?

Who are the 'immortals' in your own family or community—people whose stories are always told?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

It depends on the context. In some mythologies, immortals like the Greek gods cannot die at all. In fantasy stories, 'immortals' like vampires might live forever but can be killed by specific means like a stake or sunlight.

They were an elite army of 10,000 soldiers in the ancient Persian Empire. They were called 'Immortals' because their number was always kept at exactly 10,000; if one died, another took his place immediately.

No. It is capitalized when referring to a specific group, like 'The Immortals' of the Persian Empire or 'The Immortals' of the French Academy. In general use, it is lowercase.

In myths, humans sometimes become immortals through the gift of a god (apotheosis). Metaphorically, a human becomes an 'immortal' by achieving great fame that lasts after their death.

'Immortal' is usually an adjective (e.g., 'immortal fame') or a singular noun. 'Immortals' is the plural noun referring to a group of such beings.

Biologically, some organisms like the 'immortal jellyfish' (Turritopsis dohrnii) can revert to an earlier life stage, potentially living forever unless killed by predators or disease.

They are called 'Les Immortels' because of the Academy's motto 'À l'immortalité,' which refers to the eternal nature of the French language they are sworn to protect.

Yes, particularly in Australia (Rugby League) and the US (Baseball/Basketball), it refers to the highest level of Hall of Fame inductees.

The direct opposite is 'mortals,' which refers to beings that are subject to death, primarily humans.

You can say: 'The museum celebrates the immortals of the art world, whose works have inspired people for centuries.'