a combination which is

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a combination which is" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a specific combination of elements or factors that possess certain characteristics or qualities. Example: "The recipe calls for a combination which is both flavorful and nutritious."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

'I saw in it a combination which is still present in all his work, of an incredible visual inventiveness and very subtle content.

The Guardian - Arts

We present the design considerations for this spectrometer that lead to the use of scintillating fibers, multichannel photo-multipliers and a multiplexing electronics, a combination which is innovative in the field.

Nuclear Instruments and Methods in Physics Research Section A: Accelerators, Spectrometers, Detectors and Associated Equipment

This serum also showed multiple nuclear dots [MNDs], a combination which is thought to be characteristic of PBC [ 21, 23, 33].

BMC Cancer

We suggest that unexplained late stillbirth occurs when a fetus who is somehow vulnerable dies as a result of encountering a stressor and/or maternal condition in a combination which is lethal for them.

BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth

Unexplained late stillbirth occurs when a fetus who is somehow vulnerable dies as a result of encountering a stressor and/or maternal condition in a combination which is lethal for them.

BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth

In the elderly, a higher count of LPS-producing bacteria in the colon, along with a lower abundance of bifidobacteria, a combination which is thought to promote increased gut permeability, is likely to lead to higher plasma levels of LPS (termed metabolic endotoxaemia).

British Journal of Nutrition

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Similar data was found for fibrin sealant plus tobramycin, a combination which was as effective as poly methyl methacrylate) beads plus tobramycin against methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus osteomyelitis in a rabbit model [ 102].

BioMed Research International

An objective of this effort is to provide a test-bed for comparison of hierarchical systems, heterarchical, and a hybrid combination which is the focus of the investigation presented here.

Robotics and Computer-Integrated Manufacturing

Observe that, (varvec{v}_{alpha beta,p}) is produced by a linear combination, which is dependent of (varvec{varphi }_{alpha beta }) and (varvec{v}_{alpha beta }).

Journal of Modern Power Systems and Clean Energy

In conclusion, we have found a potent combination, which is effective against hormone-refractory PCa cells and tumours.

British Journal of Cancer

For example, a sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine combination, which is an effective treatment against multidrug resistant (MDR) malaria, has now been rendered useless in Southeast Asia by its overuse and misuse [ 1, 3].

BioMed Research International

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a combination which is", ensure that the "which" clause provides essential information defining the combination, rather than just adding extra detail. Otherwise, "that" may be more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "which" when "that" would be more appropriate. "Which" introduces non-restrictive clauses (adding extra information), while "that" introduces restrictive clauses (essential to the meaning). If the sentence's core meaning changes without the clause, use "which"; otherwise, use "that".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a combination which is" functions as a relative clause, modifying a noun phrase by providing additional information about the combination. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

67%

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a combination which is" is a grammatically sound phrase functioning as a relative clause to describe a specific combination. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its correctness and common usage. While generally neutral in tone, it often appears in scientific and news contexts. Alternatives like "a mixture that includes" offer concision. When writing, pay attention to whether "which" or "that" is more appropriate based on the restrictiveness of the clause. Understanding these nuances ensures clear and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a mixture that includes

A simpler and more direct way to express a combination.

a blend that constitutes

Replaces "combination" with "blend" and uses "constitutes" to emphasize the elements forming the combination.

a synthesis that embodies

Uses "synthesis" to imply a more integrated combination and "embodies" to highlight the representation of qualities.

a merging that results in

Focuses on the act of combining and the resulting outcome.

a composite that comprises

Emphasizes the distinct elements that make up the whole.

an amalgamation that entails

Suggests a more thorough and less easily separable mixture.

a fusion that incorporates

Implies a blending of different styles or elements.

an aggregate that integrates

Highlights the collection of items into a unified whole.

a union that merges

Focuses on the coming together of separate entities.

a weave that unites

Uses a metaphorical term to describe the combination.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "a combination which is" to sound more concise?

Consider using alternatives like "a blend that is", "a mixture that includes", or simply restructuring the sentence to avoid the relative clause. For example, instead of "a strategy which is a combination of methods", try "a strategy blending multiple methods".

What is the difference between using "which" and "that" in "a combination which/that is"?

"Which" introduces a non-restrictive clause, adding extra information. "That" introduces a restrictive clause, essential to the sentence's meaning. Use "that" if removing the clause changes the core meaning; otherwise, "which" is appropriate. The phrase "a combination that is" is also valid.

Is "a combination which are" grammatically incorrect?

Yes, if "combination" is singular, the correct form is "a combination which is". "Are" is used for plural subjects. For example, "The ingredients form a combination which is unique". If you are referring to the components within the combination in a general sense, the plural could be used depending on context, but should be reworded for clarity. For example, "There is a combination of ingredients, which are all sourced locally."

What are some synonyms for "a combination which is" in formal writing?

In formal writing, you might use "a synthesis that embodies", "a composite that comprises", or "an amalgamation that entails" to provide a more sophisticated tone. The specific alternative depends on the nuance you want to convey.