a cord

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a cord" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a length of flexible material, often used for tying, connecting, or transmitting electrical signals. Example: "I need to buy a cord to connect my speakers to the computer."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

His hand reach for a cord.

The New York Times

Occasionally a collection strikes a cord and people buy it.

The Guardian - Books

Of course, I didn't exactly know what a cord was.

The New York Times

Never use a cord that is hot to the touch.

The New York Times

Hanging from a cord is a single flashlight.

The New York Times - Arts

"And there is a cord that connects us all.

The New York Times

Don't use tacks to secure a cord, Mr. Mays added.

The New York Times

A Kenny with a pointy chin called "the Homeboy" dangled from a cord around his neck.

The New York Times

"It was a cord of maple, cut and split/And piled...."....

The New York Times - Travel

At one point I had to ski with a cord looped around my thighs.

The Guardian - Travel

It says in scripture that a cord of three strands is not easily broken.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing physical objects, be specific about the type of "cord" to enhance clarity. Use descriptors such as 'electrical cord', 'nylon cord', or 'umbilical cord' to provide precise information.

Common error

Avoid using "cord" when you mean "chord", especially in musical contexts. "Cord" refers to a string or rope, while "chord" refers to a combination of musical notes played simultaneously.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a cord" primarily functions as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It refers to a physical object (rope, cable, wire) or a metaphorical connection between things or people. Ludwig examples confirm this versatility.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Reference

7%

Encyclopedias

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a cord" is grammatically sound and frequently used in English to refer to a physical rope, cable, or wire, or to a metaphorical connection. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. It appears most commonly in News & Media, Wiki, and Science contexts. While semantically related to terms like "a rope" or "a cable", "a cord" has its own distinct connotation, implying a flexible, often insulated, connecting element. To ensure clarity, specify the type of "cord" when describing physical objects. Be mindful not to confuse "cord" with "chord", especially in musical contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a rope

Focuses on the material and construction, often implying greater thickness or strength.

a string

Emphasizes thinness and lightness, suitable for delicate tasks.

a cable

Suggests a thick, strong bundle of wires or fibers, often for electrical or mechanical purposes.

a wire

Specifically refers to a single, usually metallic, strand used for conducting electricity.

a line

Implies a long, thin strand used for various purposes like fishing or clothes drying.

a thread

Denotes a very thin strand, typically used for sewing or weaving.

a strand

Refers to a single filament within a larger rope or cable.

a tether

Emphasizes the function of restraining or connecting something.

a filament

Highlights the thin, thread-like nature of the object.

a ligature

Suggests a binding or tying function, often in a medical or surgical context.

FAQs

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

You can use "a cord" to describe a physical rope or cable, as in, "The lamp is hanging by "a cord"". It can also refer to something less tangible, like "a cord of friendship".

What's the difference between "a cord" and "a cable"?

"A cord" generally refers to a flexible, insulated wire or rope used for connecting or fastening. "A cable" typically implies a thicker, stronger bundle of wires or fibers, often used for transmitting power or signals.

What can I say instead of "a cord" to describe emotional connections?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "a bond", "a tie", or "a connection" to describe emotional or symbolic links.

Is it correct to say "a cord that connects us all"?

Yes, it is correct. This usage often implies a metaphorical or symbolic link between people or things. As Ludwig AI shows, "a cord that connects us all" is used in numerous contexts from The New York Times.