a pair of balls

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a pair of balls" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in various contexts, often referring to a set of spherical objects, but it may also have colloquial or slang meanings depending on the context. Example: "He showed a pair of balls by standing up to the bully in front of everyone."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

Books

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

Sometimes, to paraphrase Freud, a pair of balls is just a pair of balls.

The Guardian - Books

You're never too big to have a pair of balls drawn on your chin.

The Guardian - Music

She had a pair of balls that the recent ones don't seem to have.

The Guardian

"Please buy yourself a pair of balls and play with them," rejoined Bosi in one of his more printable insults.

Independent

So they sorted it, and what a pair of balls to lose wickets to - you can only admire the commitment to wilful clusterarsery.

The Guardian - Sport

Sadly, this image of middle-class Presbyterian aloofness has obscured the fact that Hendry had a pair of balls the size of the Elgin Marbles.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

Before somber line judges, advertisements for beer they could not legally purchase and a pair of ball girls about their age, Ahn and Vandeweghe traded baseline blasts.

The New York Times - Sports

This paper investigates the lateral vibration of a spinning disk shaft system supported by a pair of ball bearings and subjected to a pair of random axial forces at both ends.

Journal of Sound and Vibration

The spring chicken, which is first bound in mesh and marinated overnight, emerged from the kitchen looking like a pair of boccie balls and accompanied by a mysteriously round poached egg under a froth of "pumpernickel jus" — impossible to figure out without consulting a waiter, but delicious, and full of distinct mix-and-match flavors.

The New Yorker

He grabbed a pair of golf balls and rolled them on the green of the par-5 9th, delighting in watching the balls gather steam as they fell off the back and into a bunker hidden from view.

The New York Times - Sports

Yaki-onigiri are a pair of rice balls roasted crunchy and golden.

The New York Times - Food

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider your audience and the context before using the phrase "a pair of balls", as it can be considered vulgar or inappropriate in formal settings. When referring to courage or audacity, use less offensive alternatives like "remarkable courage".

Common error

Avoid using "a pair of balls" in formal or professional writing without understanding its informal and potentially offensive connotations. Overusing colloquialisms can undermine your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a pair of balls" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often used idiomatically to describe someone's courage, audacity, or recklessness. Ludwig confirms its usability. However, its slang origin means it isn't appropriate in all situations.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Sports

12%

Books

8%

Less common in

Vice

8%

Huffington Post

8%

Science

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a pair of balls" is a grammatically sound noun phrase often employed idiomatically to express courage, audacity, or foolishness. While Ludwig confirms its correct usage, it's crucial to recognize its informal and potentially offensive nature. Therefore, its appropriateness heavily depends on context and audience. Alternatives like "remarkable courage" or "significant foolishness" may be preferable in more formal settings. As Ludwig's examples show, it is primarily found in News & Media, Sports and Books.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sizeable cojones

Uses a Spanish synonym for 'balls' implying courage or daring.

considerable courage

Focuses on the bravery aspect, omitting any vulgar connotation.

great daring

Focuses on the courage aspect, avoiding vulgarity.

remarkable audacity

Highlights the boldness and daring of an action, avoiding slang.

immense fortitude

Highlights the mental and emotional strength, rather than physical.

uncommon valor

Refers to exceptional courage in the face of danger.

significant foolishness

Emphasizes the foolish or reckless nature of an act, removing the slang reference.

sheer bravado

Highlights the boastful or swaggering confidence.

noteworthy testicles

Directly refers to the physical attribute, but in a less common manner.

reckless abandon

Describes an action done without regard for consequences.

FAQs

What does the expression "a pair of balls" mean?

The expression "a pair of balls" is often used informally to describe someone who is brave, daring, or reckless. However, it can also have a vulgar connotation.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a pair of balls"?

It is generally appropriate to use "a pair of balls" in informal settings or casual conversations. However, it should be avoided in formal writing or professional environments where it could be considered offensive.

What are some alternatives to "a pair of balls" that I can use in formal contexts?

In more formal contexts, you can use alternatives such as "considerable courage", "remarkable audacity", or "immense fortitude" depending on the intended meaning.

Is "a pair of balls" grammatically correct?

Yes, "a pair of balls" is grammatically correct as a noun phrase. However, its appropriateness depends on the context and audience.