a pair of singles

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a pair of singles" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to two individual items that are considered as a set, often in contexts like music, sports, or clothing. Example: "I bought a pair of singles from the artist's latest album, each featuring a different song."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

After a pair of singles.

The Guardian - Sport

Patel races through his over, conceding a pair of singles.

The Guardian - Sport

The Astros star also had a pair of singles and a groundout that scored runs.

The New York Times - Sports

Andy Sheets drove in three runs with a pair of singles and a sacrifice fly.

The New York Times - Sports

Arrieta contributed a pair of singles and a walk as the Cubs pulled away.

The Guardian - Sport

Lynn opened the fourth Friday by allowing a pair of singles.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

All four sleep on a pair of single beds pushed together.

The New York Times

A pair of single track tunnels which the Pennsy could afford were built for their exdlusive use.

The New Yorker

M.I.T. COED ROOMS No. COED BATHROOMS Always coed in coed dorms, but there is at least a pair of single-sex restrooms in the building.

The New York Times

At the back are two rooms separated by a strip of canvas, with a pair of single iron bedsteads in one and a double bed in the other, all clad in crisp, white cotton.

Independent

For the past century, trains traveling from New Jersey to New York City have been confined to a pair of single-track tunnels that connect to Pennsylvania Station and that are owned by Amtrak.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a pair of singles", ensure the context clearly defines what "singles" refers to, whether it's songs, baseball hits, or individuals. Clarity prevents ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "a pair of singles" when referring to items that are inherently designed to be in pairs (e.g., shoes or socks). It's more appropriate for items that are individually complete but happen to be two in number.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a pair of singles" functions as a noun phrase. It typically acts as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence, referring to two individual items considered as a unit. Examples in Ludwig, the AI-powered writing assistant, illustrate its use in describing music releases or sports achievements.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66.66%

Science

16.66%

Wiki

5.55%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2.77%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a pair of singles" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase functioning as a noun phrase to denote two individual items considered as a unit. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and readily usable in writing. Its register is generally neutral, fitting well in news and media contexts, although the context dictates the level of formality. Common alternatives include "two individual singles" and "a couple of singles". While the phrase is versatile, it's crucial to ensure that the context makes clear what "singles" refers to. Avoid using it to describe objects inherently sold or used in pairs.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

two individual singles

Replaces "pair" with "two individual", emphasizing the separate nature of the singles.

a couple of singles

Uses "couple" as a synonym for "pair", offering a slightly more informal tone.

two separate singles

Emphasizes the distinct nature of the singles, useful when separation is key.

a duo of singles

Replaces "pair" with "duo", adding a touch of formality or sophistication.

two singles together

Highlights that the singles are being considered as a unit.

a brace of singles

Uses "brace" as a synonym for "pair", which is less common but grammatically correct.

a set of two singles

More explicitly defines what the "pair" consists of.

two lone singles

Draws attention to the singular or isolated nature of what is being paired.

double singles

Implies that two singles are being considered in close conjunction.

singles in tandem

Focuses on how the singles are connected or related.

FAQs

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

You can use "a pair of singles" to describe two individual items that are considered as a set. For example, "The band released "a pair of singles" before their album came out."

What can I say instead of "a pair of singles"?

You can use alternatives like "two individual singles" or "a couple of singles" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "a pair of singles" or should I use another phrase?

The phrase "a pair of singles" is grammatically correct and commonly used. Whether it's the best choice depends on the specific context. Sometimes alternatives like "two separate singles" can be more precise.

In what contexts is "a pair of singles" most appropriate?

The phrase "a pair of singles" is suitable in contexts where you are referring to two individual items, such as songs or hits in a sport, that are being considered together as a set. It's not ideal for items that are inherently sold or used in pairs, like shoes.