a combination of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase “a combination of” is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when you want to express the idea that two or more entities have joined together or blended. For example, “The meal was a combination of flavors from around the world.”.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

A combination of those.

The New York Times

A combination of the above?

Independent

It's a combination of both.

The New York Times

Usually it is a combination of both.

The New York Times - Arts

It is a combination of factors.

Independent

Logically, Nabucco is a combination of both.

The New York Times

Seems to be a combination of factors.

The New Yorker

A combination of Rorschach test and anagram.

The New Yorker

My story is a combination of stuff.

Independent

Perhaps a combination of all these emotions.

The Economist

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 of", ensure that all the elements you are combining are clearly identified to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "The solution is a combination of factors", specify what those factors are.

Common error

Avoid using "a combination of" without specifying what is being combined. Being vague can weaken your statement. For example, instead of "The success was a combination of things", list the key elements like "hard work", "good timing", and "effective marketing".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a combination of" functions as a connector or linking phrase. It introduces a list of elements, factors, or qualities that together form a whole. It signals that what follows is not a single entity but rather a blend or composite. As Ludwig AI points out, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely applicable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Wiki

23%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a combination of" is a versatile and grammatically sound conjunction phrase used to indicate that something is composed of multiple elements. As affirmed by Ludwig AI, its correctness is beyond doubt. It sees very common usage across varied contexts, including news, media, science, and general writing, but especially common in News & Media. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying what elements are combined to avoid ambiguity. Consider related alternatives such as "a blend of" or "a mixture of" to refine your meaning further.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a blend of

Focuses on the mixing of elements, similar to combining but emphasizes seamless integration.

a mixture of

Highlights the presence of different components coexisting, with a slightly less formal tone.

an assortment of

Implies a varied collection of items, with emphasis on diversity.

a merging of

Suggests a fusion or integration, implying the original entities lose some individual identity.

a composite of

Emphasizes the creation of a single entity from multiple parts.

a synthesis of

Highlights the creation of something new through the combination of different elements.

a convergence of

Suggests that several things come together at one point.

a confluence of

Describes the flowing together of multiple streams or influences.

an amalgamation of

Implies a less refined combination, often involving dissimilar materials.

a commingling of

Suggests a complex and intimate mixing of elements.

FAQs

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

Use "a combination of" to indicate that something is made up of several different things. For example, "The recipe is "a combination of" sweet and savory flavors".

What are some alternatives to "a combination of"?

Alternatives include "a blend of", "a mixture of", or "a synthesis of", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to say "a combination of factors"?

While "factors" is often implied when using "a combination of", it's not inherently redundant. Including "factors" can add clarity, especially if the context might suggest other types of elements are being combined.

How does "a combination of" differ from "a mix of"?

"A combination of" and "a mix of" are very similar. "A mix of" might suggest a less formal or structured arrangement compared to "a combination of", but the difference is often subtle and context-dependent.