a natural match

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a natural match" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe two things that are well-suited or compatible with each other. Example: "Their personalities are so similar that they are truly a natural match for each other."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

In one way, Tercek and the Nature Conservancy are a natural match.

The New Yorker

Actors have since then become widely used [1 4, 36 41], especially in embedded systems, where actor-oriented design is a natural match to the heterogeneous and concurrent nature of such systems.

EURASIP Journal on Image and Video Processing

Cities and startups are a natural match.

MIT Technology Review

Startups and cities are a natural match.

Harvard Business Review

The two men are in many ways a natural match.

The New Yorker

This turns out to be a natural match.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

7 human-written examples

The novel follows Emma Woodhouse, a precocious 20-year-old who thinks she's a natural match-maker.

Independent

The top discard may never be taken without a natural matching pair.

Britannica

The observations that come from within the same block have a natural matching mechanism.

Statistical Methods

There is a natural matching between these two finite element spaces, since the normal component of the velocity field is continuous across element boundaries.

Journal of Computational Physics

An artificial heart was used until a proper natural match could be found.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a natural match" to emphasize an inherent compatibility or suitability between two elements. It suggests that the connection is not forced or artificial, but rather a logical or intuitive fit. For example, "Data analytics and personalized marketing are a natural match".

Common error

Avoid using "a natural match" in overly predictable scenarios where the compatibility is already obvious. Opt for more descriptive language to add depth and originality to your writing. For example, instead of saying "Peanut butter and jelly are a natural match", try "Peanut butter and jelly create a delightful flavor profile".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a natural match" functions as a predicate nominative or a subject complement. It renames or describes the subject of a sentence, indicating compatibility or suitability. As Ludwig illustrates, it often follows a linking verb such as "is" or "seems".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Science

12%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a natural match" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe compatibility or suitability between two or more things. As Ludwig confirms, this phrase is widely used across a diverse array of contexts, especially in News & Media. While generally neutral in register, the surrounding context dictates the overall formality. To enhance your writing, consider the suggested best practices and be mindful of potential clichéd usage. For similar expressions, explore alternatives such as ""a perfect fit"" or "a logical match".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a logical match

Emphasizes the rationality and reason behind the compatibility.

a perfect fit

Highlights the ideal alignment and seamless integration.

a harmonious pairing

Suggests a pleasing and balanced combination.

a compatible combination

Focuses on the ability to coexist and function well together.

an ideal complement

Stresses how one enhances the other.

a fitting alliance

Implies a strategic and appropriate union.

a synergistic blend

Highlights the combined effect being greater than the sum of its parts.

a complementary relationship

Indicates a mutually beneficial connection.

a well-suited combination

Indicates the combination is appropriate or fitting.

a seamless integration

Stresses how easily the things are combined.

FAQs

What does it mean when something is described as "a natural match"?

Describing something as "a natural match" means that two or more things are very well-suited or compatible with each other. It suggests an effortless and intuitive connection between them.

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

You can use "a natural match" to describe pairings, combinations, or relationships that seem inherently right or well-suited. For example, "Her skills and the company's needs were "a perfect fit", making her a valuable asset".

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

Some alternatives include "a logical match", ""a perfect fit"", "a harmonious pairing", or "an ideal complement", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "a natural match" in formal writing?

Yes, "a natural match" is appropriate for both formal and informal writing. It is a common and well-understood phrase that doesn't carry any negative connotations. The register should be considered when choosing this expression.