a good combination

USAGE SUMMARY

"a good combination" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is often used to describe two contrasting elements that have been joined together to form a desirable outcome. For example: "The combination of bold colors and unique textures created a good combination for her art piece."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's a good combination".

The New York Times - Sports

I assume that was a good combination?

The New York Times

That can't be a good combination.

The New Yorker

"That's not a good combination".

The New York Times - Sports

That contrast makes for a good combination".

The New York Times - Arts

Such a good combination, Stanley and Jack.

The New York Times

That's a good combination for the Redskins.

The Washington Post

Political instability and nuclear weapons are not a good combination.

The Guardian - Opinion

"We're not a good combination in restaurants," offers Mr. DeWolf.

The New York Times

This would be a good combination for us".

The New York Times

"News and pleasure are a good combination," she says.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing something as "a good combination", specify what elements are combined and why their combination is beneficial. This adds clarity and impact to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "a good combination" as a generic compliment. Instead, detail what makes the combination work well. For example, instead of saying "Their skills are a good combination", explain how each skill complements the other.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a good combination" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or object. As Ludwig AI shows, it describes a set of elements that, when joined, produce a positive or effective result.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

19%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a good combination" is a versatile and frequently used phrase for positively evaluating the synergy of multiple elements. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and appropriate for diverse contexts. While highly prevalent in News & Media, also have relevance in Scientific and Formal & Business writing. Remember to add detail about the specifics of the combination when you use the phrase, to give a stronger and more memorable message. Always consider alternative expressions such as "favorable pairing" or "successful mix" for more formal writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a favorable pairing

Replaces "combination" with "pairing", emphasizing compatibility and suitability of two elements.

a successful mix

Substitutes "combination" with "mix", highlighting the achievement of a positive outcome through the blending of elements.

an effective blend

Similar to "successful mix", this phrase emphasizes the efficiency and positive results of combining elements.

a winning formula

Implies that the combination leads to success, akin to a recipe that guarantees a positive result.

a perfect match

Highlights that the elements complement each other exceptionally well, resulting in an ideal pairing.

an ideal synergy

Focuses on the enhanced outcome produced when combined elements work together harmoniously.

a potent alliance

Suggests a strong and powerful combination of elements that are united for a purpose.

a fortunate union

Emphasizes the luck or good fortune associated with the merging of particular elements.

a complementary duo

Highlights that the two elements work well together, complementing each other's qualities.

a strategic merging

Suggests that the combination has been carefully planned and is intended to achieve a specific goal.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "a good combination" to sound more sophisticated?

Consider using phrases like "favorable pairing", "successful mix", or "effective blend" to add nuance and sophistication to your writing. The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it always appropriate to use "a good combination" in formal writing?

While generally acceptable, "a good combination" might be too informal for certain academic or highly professional contexts. Opt for stronger, more specific language like "ideal synergy" or "strategic merging" to maintain a formal tone.

What are some examples of "a good combination" in business?

In business, "a good combination" might refer to complementary skill sets within a team, a beneficial partnership between companies, or a well-balanced product offering that meets diverse customer needs. For instance, "strong marketing and efficient operations are a good combination for business success".

How can I avoid overusing the phrase "a good combination" in my writing?

Vary your vocabulary by using synonyms such as "perfect match", "winning formula", or describing the specific benefits of the combination instead of simply labeling it as "good".