a pair of slacks

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a pair of slacks" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific type of trousers, typically more formal or dressy than casual pants. Example: "For the business meeting, I decided to wear a pair of slacks instead of jeans."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

And one man left a blue sport jacket and a pair of slacks.

The New York Times

Ahmet was wearing a pair of slacks of cavalry twill and a white silk shirt.

The New Yorker

I had on a pair of slacks and a collared shirt.

The New York Times

"It was fine," said Stephen Mauro, a substance abuse counselor looking for a pair of slacks.

The New York Times

I bought a pair of slacks and cold-water washed them as I usually do.

The New York Times

I turn to find a cleareyed, gray-haired man wearing a conservative jacket and a pair of slacks, who tells me that his name is Elder Grover.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

ROLE MODELS A pair of slacker buddies, Paul Rudd and Seann William Scott, are sentenced to spend 150 hours as mentors in a city youth program.

The New York Times

The collapse prevention system consists of a collapse inhibiting mechanism, such as a pair of slack cables or loose linkages, working in tandem with the main lateral-force resisting system and engaging the gravity framing to avert collapse.

Journal of Constructional Steel Research

She belongs to the age of common endeavour, where no one thought twice about picking a pair of black slacks off a rack containing 32 other pairs of identical black slacks, or singling out a blouse available in many sizes and plainly unlimited quantities.

The Guardian - Opinion

She is wearing a raspberry-colored blouse and a pair of purple slacks.

The New Yorker

So Ali struggled off his back and pulled on a pair of black slacks.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing an outfit, consider the specific type of slacks (e.g., "wool slacks", "linen slacks") to provide more detail and context.

Common error

Remember that while "slacks" and "pants" can be used interchangeably, "slacks" usually implies a more formal style. Using "slacks" to describe very casual pants may sound odd.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a pair of slacks" functions primarily as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. The term refers to a specific type of garment, namely trousers that are often more formal than jeans but less formal than suit pants. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

2%

Academia

1%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a pair of slacks" is a common and grammatically sound noun phrase used to refer to formal or semi-formal trousers. Ludwig AI analysis, supported by numerous real-world examples, indicates its suitability in a variety of contexts, especially news and media, and wiki entries. While "pants" or "trousers" can be alternatives, "a pair of slacks" implies a more tailored and formal style. When you are writing it is important to consider that you are describing a garment that is suitable for business or formal occasions and you want to choose the word "slacks" only when you are describing formal and not casual garments.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a pair of dress pants

More common and interchangeable term for slacks.

a pair of suit pants

Refers to pants designed to be worn with a suit jacket.

some dress pants

Focuses on the formality of the trousers.

some formal trousers

Emphasizes the formal nature of the pants.

a set of dress trousers

Highlights that the trousers are designed for formal attire.

some smart trousers

Highlights the stylish and neat appearance of the trousers.

some business casual pants

Specifies that the pants are appropriate for a business casual setting.

some tailored pants

Indicates that the pants are custom-fitted.

a pair of chinos

Offers a slightly more casual alternative, while still being relatively dressy.

a pair of khakis

Suggests a specific style and material of slacks, suitable for slightly less formal contexts.

FAQs

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

You can use "a pair of slacks" to describe formal or semi-formal trousers. For example: "He wore "a pair of slacks" to the interview."

What's the difference between "a pair of slacks" and "a pair of trousers"?

While often used interchangeably, "a pair of trousers" is a broader term. "A pair of slacks" typically refers to dressier, more formal pants.

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

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "dress pants", "formal trousers", or simply "pants".

Is "a pair of slacks" appropriate for business casual attire?

Yes, "a pair of slacks" is generally suitable for business casual settings. They are often paired with a button-down shirt or a blazer for a professional look.