a match for

USAGE SUMMARY

"a match for" is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
It generally means an equal or opposite to someone or something in strength, quality, expertise, etc. For example: "He was a match for his rival in the debate."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Fair is a match for foul.

The New Yorker

A match for the food.

The New York Times

"Liverpool are a match for Manchester United.

The Guardian - Sport

Talk about why you are a match for the job.

Stanford University

Game 1 proved to be a match for the ages.

The New York Times - Sports

Norway's Statoil is a match for almost anyone.

The Economist

Is she a match for this most powerful of men?

The New York Times - Books

England and Argentina should play a match for the islands.

The Economist

Pelfrey was a match for Saunders after a rocky start.

The New York Times - Sports

But it was not a match for the ages.

The New Yorker

"A bad putter is a match for no one.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a match for", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being compared and in what aspect (e.g., strength, skill, suitability).

Common error

Avoid using "a match for" without specifying the criteria for comparison. For example, instead of saying "He is a match for her", specify "He is a match for her in intelligence".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a match for" functions as a prepositional phrase, indicating a state of equivalence, suitability, or correspondence. It is used to show that someone or something is comparable or equal to another in a specific quality or aspect. Ludwig highlights its correct usage and broad applicability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Academia

22%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a match for" is a versatile and frequently used prepositional phrase that signifies equivalence, suitability, or comparability. According to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and applicable across a wide range of contexts, from news and media to academic and scientific writing. Its high frequency and neutral register make it a reliable choice for expressing comparisons. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the criteria for comparison. Consider alternatives like "equal to" or "suitable for" based on the intended nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

equal to

Focuses on strict equivalence in value or measure.

suitable for

Emphasizes appropriateness and fitness for a specific purpose or situation.

comparable to

Highlights the ability to be compared favorably, suggesting a similar level of quality or ability.

a counterpart to

Suggests a complementary relationship, where one thing balances or completes another.

on par with

Indicates that something is at the same level or standard as something else.

capable of facing

Highlights the ability to confront and handle a challenge or opponent.

able to contend with

Implies the strength and skill to compete or argue effectively.

a worthy opponent for

Specifically emphasizes that someone or something presents a good challenge.

in the same league as

Suggests being at a similar level of skill, quality, or importance.

qualified for

Focuses on meeting the necessary requirements or standards.

FAQs

How can I use "a match for" in a sentence?

Use "a match for" to indicate that someone or something is equal or suitable in a particular aspect. For example, "The new software is "a match for" the demands of the project".

What are some alternatives to saying "a match for"?

Alternatives include "equal to", "suitable for", or "comparable to", depending on the specific meaning you want to convey.

Is it better to use "a match for" or "suitable for"?

The best choice depends on the context. "A match for" implies a direct comparison or equivalence, while "suitable for" emphasizes appropriateness or fitness for a specific purpose.

Can "a match for" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "a match for" is appropriate for both formal and informal writing. Its versatility makes it suitable for various contexts, as noted by Ludwig.