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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
a combination of samples
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "a combination of samples" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a mixture or assortment of different samples, often in contexts like research, analysis, or experimentation. Example: "The study analyzed a combination of samples from various locations to determine the overall quality of the water."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
Alternative expressions(1)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
4 human-written examples
Relations between urbanization and particle-associated contaminants in New England were evaluated using a combination of samples from sediment cores, streambed sediments, and suspended stream sediments.
The third set is a combination of samples from set 1 and set 2. The database has been used for recognition of Arabic characters [140] and numerals [141] as well as word spotting [142].
This process, or a 'multipopulation design,' allows a combination of samples, and is indeed very efficient, if the sample design and allocation are adhered to (Kish 1994, p. 168).
A typical read depth strategy consists of using another sample (or a combination of samples) as a reference to control for the variability at the capture and sequencing steps.
Science
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
56 human-written examples
As part of the planning effort for combined sewer overflow (CSO) abatement, a combination of sampling and mathematical modeling was used to characterize both CSO and receiving water quality in the city of Buffalo, NY.
A method widely used for providing spatial information is a combination of sampling strategies and geostatistics.
A combination of sampling by broadside fan-recordings and in-line profiling allows us to image increases in Moho depth towards the centre of the plateau.
Science
The effects of harvesting of callianassid shrimp (Trypaea australiensis) on the abundance and composition of macrobenthic assemblages in unvegetated sediments of a subtropical coastal embayment in Queensland, Australia were examined using a combination of sampling and manipulative experiments.
However, Quinn did have a case in his group for which a combination of sample mislabeling and the crash of a computer hard drive led to a perfect storm of mistakes that resulted in a student withdrawing a paper already in review.
Science & Research
The methodology prioritizes among taxa based on a combination of sampling, geographic, and environmental gaps.
Science
The remaining 1,426 candidate RAD alleles grouped into 1,055 binary patterns and are likely to be a result of a combination of sampling and technical error.
Science
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When describing the origin or nature of the samples, be specific about the context. For example, instead of saying "a combination of samples", specify "a combination of soil samples" or "a combination of patient samples".
Common error
Avoid using "a combination of samples" without specifying what the samples are. The phrase becomes vague without clear context. Always clarify the source and type of samples involved to maintain clarity and precision.
Source & Trust
82%
Authority and reliability
4.3/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "a combination of samples" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. As Ludwig AI suggests, it's used to denote a mixture or assortment derived from multiple sampling events or sources. The examples highlight its use in scientific contexts.
Frequent in
Science
100%
Less common in
News & Media
0%
Formal & Business
0%
Encyclopedias
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "a combination of samples" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe a mixture or collection of multiple samples, especially in scientific and technical contexts. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it’s important to provide context by specifying the nature and source of the samples to avoid vagueness. While the phrase is relatively rare, its usage is straightforward: ensure clarity, specify the sample types, and maintain a formal tone appropriate for scientific writing. Consider using alternatives like "a mix of specimens" or "a composite of analyzed elements" for variety.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
a mix of specimens
Replaces "combination" with "mix" and "samples" with "specimens" to emphasize the variety of items.
an array of samplings
Uses "array" to suggest a structured collection and "samplings" as a variant of "samples".
a collection of test pieces
Substitutes "samples" with "test pieces" to highlight the experimental aspect.
a composite of analyzed elements
Emphasizes that the samples are analyzed and combined into a composite.
a blend of extracted portions
Suggests that the samples are extracted and then blended together.
an aggregate of representative items
Focuses on the representativeness of the combined items.
a fusion of assessed components
Highlights the merging of assessed components.
a compilation of selected instances
Emphasizes the selection process involved in creating the combination.
a merging of various units
Suggests different units are being merged into one entity.
a synthesis of gathered fragments
Focuses on the synthesis of fragments to create a whole.
FAQs
How can I use "a combination of samples" in a research paper?
In a research paper, you might use "a combination of samples" to describe your methodology. For instance: "The analysis was performed using "a combination of samples" from both control and experimental groups."
What is a more formal alternative to "a combination of samples"?
A more formal alternative could be "a composite of analyzed elements", especially in technical or scientific writing where precision is key.
How does "a combination of samples" differ from "a sample"?
"A sample" refers to a single instance or unit, while ""a combination of samples"" implies multiple samples mixed or analyzed together. The first is singular, the second is plural and collective.
Is it correct to say "a combination of sample" instead of "a combination of samples"?
No, "a combination of sample" is grammatically incorrect. Since "combination" implies multiple items, you should always use the plural form, ""a combination of samples"".
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
82%
Authority and reliability
4.3/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested