a pair of socks

USAGE SUMMARY

"a pair of socks" is correct and usable in written English.
For example, you could use it in a sentence like this: I bought a pair of socks to match my new shoes.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

We want a pair of socks.

The Washington Post

And that's for a pair of socks.

The Guardian - Opinion

They wore each other like a pair of socks.

The New Yorker

The lot seemed as menacing as a pair of socks.

The New York Times

"I would love a pair of socks," the man said.

The New York Times

Recipient opened package to find a pair of socks.

The New Yorker

And she never owned a pair of socks.

The New York Times

We haven't even had to hire a pair of socks.

The Guardian - Film

Like "a pair of socks from an unfamiliar aunt at Christmas," declared the Daily Mail.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

It is, the Mail says, "a gift about as exciting as a pair of socks".

The Guardian - Film

Before you head to bed, wear a pair of socks or keep slippers beside your bed.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about "a pair of socks", be mindful of the context. Is it a gift, a necessity, or part of a larger metaphor? Adjust your language accordingly.

Common error

Avoid using "a pair of socks" as a placeholder for any generic gift. While sometimes appropriate for humorous or self-deprecating contexts, it can make your writing seem uninspired. Offer an authentic detail or memory.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a pair of socks" primarily functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the object of a verb or the subject of a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a pair of socks" is a common and grammatically sound noun phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It's versatile, appearing in various contexts from everyday descriptions to metaphors. While generally neutral in register, the phrase's usage is shaped more by its context. Ludwig examples show it frequently appears in News & Media sources and Wiki entries. When you're writing, be mindful of the message "a pair of socks" sends. Is it a gift? Or are you trying to make your writing funny?

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

some socks

Changes the quantity from a specific "pair" to an unspecified "some".

socks

Removes the emphasis on the pairing, focusing on the item itself.

a sock set

Implies multiple pairs of socks, instead of a single pair.

foot coverings

Replaces the specific item with a general category.

leg warmers

Substitutes with a related item, used to keep legs warm, not exactly "a pair of socks".

stockings

Refers to a type of hosiery, different from everyday socks.

hose

A more general term for coverings for the feet and legs.

a woollen item

Replaces a specific thing with something generic and related to its material.

textile footwear

Replaces with a technical term that describes footwear made of cloth.

hosiery

Is a collective term for garments worn on the feet and legs.

FAQs

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

You can use "a pair of socks" in various contexts, such as describing a gift, an everyday item, or even as a metaphor. For example: "He received "a pair of socks" for his birthday" or "The problem was as simple as finding "a pair of socks" in a clean drawer".

What are some alternatives to "a pair of socks"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "some socks", "socks", or "foot coverings". These alternatives may change the nuance of the sentence.

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

No, it is not grammatically correct. The phrase is "a pair of socks" because "socks" is plural. You are referring to two individual items that make up a pair.

What does it mean when someone says something is "as exciting as a pair of socks"?

It typically means the thing being described is not very exciting or interesting. It's a common idiom that suggests the item is mundane or ordinary.