"En masse" is a term derived from the French language that means "as a group." The term is believed to have been created in the late 18th century. It most often used by a member of a group as an adverb for an action. For example, a battle strategist might give a direction such as, "Our country and our allies will invade the enemy en masse on the 14th of November." It can also be used in casual conversation. An example would be a group of artists who share a gallery might say "Tomorrow we will move our artwork en masse to the art auction." The term en masse isn't commonly used, but using it is a good way to make writing or a conversation more interesting.
"En masse" can convey a sense of the enormity of a crowd. If used correctly, it can even make a group seem larger or more powerful than it actually is. If someone said "There are hostile strikers marching en masse this way," it would sound more powerful than "There are 3 hostile strikers coming this way." Groups that want to make their presence seem more significant and imminent may choose to utilise the term "en masse." It can also be used as a means of empowering a group that is working together toward a specific goal. A group of humanitarian aid workers might be going to a dangerous part of the world to help people in need. Because it would be a frightening situation for the members of the group they might say something like "We are going en masse to help those less fortunate than us" as a way to comfort all of the group members. In almost every instance that this term is used, it is referring to a group activity.
"En masse" can convey a sense of the enormity of a crowd. If used correctly, it can even make a group seem larger or more powerful than it actually is. If someone said "There are hostile strikers marching en masse this way," it would sound more powerful than "There are 3 hostile strikers coming this way." Groups that want to make their presence seem more significant and imminent may choose to utilise the term "en masse." It can also be used as a means of empowering a group that is working together toward a specific goal. A group of humanitarian aid workers might be going to a dangerous part of the world to help people in need. Because it would be a frightening situation for the members of the group they might say something like "We are going en masse to help those less fortunate than us" as a way to comfort all of the group members. In almost every instance that this term is used, it is referring to a group activity.
