a pair of gloves

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a pair of gloves" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to two gloves that are designed to be worn together as a set. Example: "I bought a new pair of gloves to keep my hands warm during the winter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Plus sports clothing and a pair of gloves.

The Guardian - Money

Who would pay that much for a pair of gloves?

The Guardian - Arts

"But I found a pair of gloves for $3.

The New York Times

He has even bought a pair of gloves.

The New York Times

I was then handed a pair of gloves.

The New York Times

Tell the doorman you left a pair of gloves there the day before.

The New Yorker

Food is stored in a wine box, and each have a pair of gloves for driving.

The New York Times

If your hands were cold, he might give you a pair of gloves.

The Economist

When I took him a pair of gloves at his selling table, he thanked me in a neutral manner.

The New York Times - Arts

Thinking back on what many people do on weekends in hotels, I quickly pull on a pair of gloves.

The New York Times - Magazine

Its lightweight aluminum handle is cushioned and, with a pair of gloves, helps to ward off blisters.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about gloves, specify the type if relevant (e.g., "winter gloves", "gardening gloves") for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using singular verbs or pronouns when referring to "a pair of gloves". Remember that "pair" acts as a plural noun in this context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a pair of gloves" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It identifies a specific item (gloves) and quantifies it, referring to two gloves intended to be worn together as a set. Ludwig confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Wiki

31%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a pair of gloves" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to refer to two gloves intended to be worn together. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it appears frequently in various contexts, including News & Media and Wiki. When using this phrase, ensure proper plural agreement and consider specifying the type of gloves for clarity. Though Ludwig confirms its validity, remember to use language that suits your context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A matching set of gloves

Highlights the matching nature of the pair of gloves.

Set of gloves

Alternative emphasizes gloves as a complete ensemble.

Gloves for both hands

Specifies that there is one glove for each hand.

Pair of hand protectors

Similar to 'a pair of gloves', but highlighting the protector aspect more.

Protective handwear

Highlights the protective function of the gloves.

Hand protectors

Focuses on protection from injury or the elements.

Hand coverings

Broader term encompassing various types of hand protection.

Two gloves

A simpler way to refer to gloves used in pair.

Work gloves

Emphasizes gloves designed for manual labor.

Winter gloves

Emphasizes gloves designed for manual labor.

FAQs

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

You can use "a pair of gloves" in sentences like: "I need to buy a new pair of gloves for the winter", "She gave him "a pair of gloves" as a gift", or "Don't forget to pack a pair of gloves for the trip".

What are some alternatives to saying "a pair of gloves"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "hand coverings", "protective handwear", or "a set of gloves".

Is it grammatically correct to say "a gloves" instead of "a pair of gloves"?

No, it is not grammatically correct. Gloves are typically sold and used in pairs, so the correct phrasing is "a pair of gloves". To refer to one item you can say "a glove".

What's the difference between "a pair of gloves" and "some gloves"?

"A pair of gloves" refers specifically to two matching gloves intended to be worn together. "Some gloves" is a more general term that could refer to multiple gloves, not necessarily a matching set.