a combination

USAGE SUMMARY

"a combination" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are describing something made from a mixture of different elements. For example: "The recipe for the cake calls for a combination of dry ingredients and eggs."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

That's quite a combination.

The New York Times

He responds, "A combination".

The New Yorker

A combination of those.

The New York Times

SHANDLING That's a combination.

The New York Times - Arts

"What a combination!

The New Yorker

It could be a combination.

The Economist

A combination of the above?

Independent

Fabiano: It is a combination.

The New York Times

It's a combination of both.

The New York Times

A combination of both?

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Combo skin-A combination of either.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a combination", specify the elements being combined to provide clarity and context for your reader. For example, instead of saying "The solution involves a combination", say "The solution involves a combination of strategies and resources".

Common error

Avoid vague statements using "a combination" without identifying the components. Readers benefit from knowing exactly what is being combined. Instead of saying "It's a combination of factors", detail the key factors involved.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a combination" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or object. It describes the result of joining or mixing two or more things together. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Wiki

21%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

11%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a combination" is a versatile and frequently used noun phrase that effectively describes a blend or mixture of multiple elements. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use. The analysis reveals its common occurrence in news and media, as well as wiki content, highlighting its utility in describing diverse subjects. While its register is generally neutral, ensuring specificity when listing the elements being combined enhances clarity and precision in writing. When used effectively, "a combination" provides a succinct way to convey the multifaceted nature of a topic or solution.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a mixture

Focuses more on the blending of elements rather than the structured arrangement implied by "combination".

a blend

Suggests a smoother, more integrated mix compared to "combination".

an assortment

Highlights variety within the mix, whereas "combination" emphasizes the specific joining of elements.

a synthesis

Emphasizes the creation of something new from the combined elements, unlike the simple aggregation implied by "combination".

a composite

Stresses the individual parts forming a unified whole, compared to a general mix in "combination".

a merging

Highlights the act of joining elements together, rather than the resulting mixture itself.

an amalgam

Implies a less structured or ordered mix than "combination".

a consolidation

Suggests a more deliberate bringing together of elements, whereas "combination" can be more general.

a confluence

Implies a flowing together of elements, where "combination" does not.

a convergence

Highlights elements coming together at a point, which is not always the case with a "combination".

FAQs

How can I use "a combination" in a sentence?

Use "a combination" to describe something made up of multiple parts or elements working together. For example, "The treatment involved "a combination of" medication and therapy".

What are some alternatives to using the phrase "a combination"?

Depending on the context, you could use "a mixture", "a blend", or "an assortment" as alternatives to "a combination".

Is it always necessary to list the elements when using "a combination"?

While not always grammatically required, listing the elements clarifies your meaning and makes your writing more precise. Without specifying the elements, "a combination" can sound vague.

What's the difference between "a combination" and "a compound"?

"A combination" generally refers to a mix of distinct elements, whereas "a compound" often refers to a substance formed by the chemical union of two or more elements or ingredients that are intimately mixed.