a pair of figures

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a pair of figures" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to two specific figures, often in contexts such as statistics, illustrations, or comparisons. Example: "In the report, we analyzed a pair of figures that illustrate the growth of the company over the last five years."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

At the core was a pair of figures: a bride and groom.

The New York Times

Each handle was topped by a pair of figures placed back to back.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Another big-ticket painting is "Dustheads," a 1982 seven-foot-tall canvas depicting a pair of figures by Jean-Michel Basquiat.

The New York Times - Arts

"Last Chance" (1955) shows a ghoulish beast hovering over a scene of human carnage, while "Because It's There" (1969) depicts a pair of figures stranded on a cliff face.

The New York Times

The new works are an outgrowth of "Tree Souls," a pair of figures from 1994 mounted on inverted tree branches that rise 16 feet from their bases, suggesting a monumental Adam and Eve.

The New York Times - Arts

From the cliff beyond, I looked back to admire the stately ruin and became aware of a pair of figures hurrying with what seemed like sinister purpose at my heels - a tall, pale woman in red on the arm of a man wrapped in a waterproof that flapped like a cloak.

The Telegraph

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

— A pair of figure skating costumes, meant to be aboriginal, have been denounced instead as abominable.

The New York Times - Sports

Hedican put on a pair of figure skates, stepped onto the ice where Yamaguchi was practicing and performed some less-than-smooth figure skating moves.

The New York Times

A pair of figure skates becomes both a knife and a tool for removing an infected tooth in an excruciating scene of do-it-yourself dentistry.

The New York Times

He wears a wide-brimmed sheriff's hat with those funky toggle things on it and he fills a short-sleeve shirt and a pair of figure-hugging "pants" with some style.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"I'm the same as always — fabulous!" Weir's purse could have held a pair of figure skates, but there won't be any need for him to carry them to the Winter Games in Sochi, Russia.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing art or sculpture, use "a pair of figures" to denote two distinct forms, especially if they are related or intended to be viewed together. It adds a layer of intentionality to the description.

Common error

Avoid using "a pair of figures" in everyday conversation when simpler alternatives like "two figures" or "a couple of figures" would suffice. This keeps your language clear and avoids sounding overly formal or stilted.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a pair of figures" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig examples show its use in describing visual art, statistical data, and general scenarios where two distinct figures are being referenced. Ludwig AI indicates its correctness for use in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Wiki

7%

Reference

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a pair of figures" is a grammatically sound noun phrase used to describe two distinct entities, often with a relationship or connection between them. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and appropriate for written English. Its usage is most common in News & Media, Science, and Encyclopedias, with a slightly more formal tone. To maintain clarity, consider simpler alternatives like "two figures" in informal contexts. Ludwig examples showcase its versatility, but mindful usage ensures effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

two figures

Replaces "a pair of" with the numeral "two", offering a more direct and concise phrasing.

couple of figures

Substitutes "pair" with "couple", which is a synonym and maintains the meaning.

duo of figures

Replaces "pair" with "duo", which is suitable when referring to two people or characters.

brace of figures

Uses "brace" instead of "pair", offering a slightly more formal or archaic tone.

set of two figures

Emphasizes the concept of a group of two figures, providing a slightly more descriptive alternative.

twosome of figures

Uses "twosome" to indicate a group of two, which is less common but still understandable.

matched figures

Highlights the idea of the figures being similar or related, which might be relevant in certain contexts.

coordinated figures

Suggests that the figures are designed or arranged to work together or complement each other.

harmonized figures

Similar to "coordinated figures", but with a stronger emphasis on aesthetic appeal or balance.

associated figures

Indicates that the figures are linked or connected in some way, which could be through a relationship or shared characteristic.

FAQs

How can I use "a pair of figures" in a sentence?

You can use "a pair of figures" to describe two distinct entities, often in art, statistics, or general descriptions. For example, "The painting features "a pair of figures" in a classical setting".

What's the difference between "a pair of figures" and "two figures"?

While both refer to two entities, "a pair of figures" often implies a connection or relationship between them, whereas "two figures" is a more neutral and direct description. For instance, "A pair of figures" suggests an intentional grouping, whereas "two figures" is simply descriptive.

What are some alternatives to using "a pair of figures"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "two figures", "a couple of figures", or, in some cases, more descriptive terms like "a duo" or "a twosome".

Is it always appropriate to use "a pair of figures"?

While grammatically correct, "a pair of figures" might sound overly formal in casual contexts. Opt for simpler alternatives like "two" or "a couple" in informal settings. For example, instead of saying "I saw "a pair of figures" walking down the street", you might say "I saw two people walking down the street".