a pair of strokes

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a pair of strokes" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you are referring to two distinct marks, movements, or actions, often in artistic or technical settings. Example: "The artist created a beautiful painting with just a pair of strokes, showcasing her incredible talent."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Yet his behaviour during the past couple of years, probably influenced by a pair of strokes suffered just before Mr Suharto fell, seems far more erratic than it once was.This has been shown to most damaging effect in his relations with his vice-president, Megawati Sukarnoputri.

The Economist

On Sunday, with everything at stake, after a magnificent comeback on the front nine, followed by a perfect drive and a laser-guided six-iron from 207 yards out to the 15th green, a pair of strokes that recalled the steel-nerved best of Woods's triumphs at Augusta National, the ball rolled gently around the lip on the right-hand edge of the hole, oblivious to the consequences of its errant path.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Among other things on that par 5 hole, Nakajima pulled his drive into the trees, hit a shot into the creek and finally holed out after suffering a pair of penalty strokes.

The New York Times - Sports

First a pair of small strokes left her temporarily unable to read; then, in 2011, a neurological disorder called chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy took control of her hands and feet, leaving her unable to type or write without difficulty.

The New York Times

However a pair of penalty strokes, the second of which was awarded despite protests by Harlequins that the ball had been played with a back stick by Loreto in the build-up, were both converted by Hannah Matthews and the same player was on hand to hammer home the equaliser from a penalty corner in the final minute.

BBC

Eddie lay on the floor in a pair of waders, stroking the neck of their small dog, Cocoa.

The New York Times

Writing in The New York Times, Robin Finn called the match "a slugfest conducted by a pair of teenagers whose strokes defied age, gender and the legal speed limit".

The New York Times - Sports

Sure, neither of these guys is going to challenge for a title here, but this matchup features a pair of the sweetest strokes in the men's game.

The New York Times

Her two propellers were powered by a pair of eight-cylinder, four-stroke MAN Diesel engines that had a maximum output of 3260 shp.

Wikipedia

Her propulsion system consisted of four steam turbines and a pair of 10-cylinder four-stroke diesel engines.

Wikipedia

Their propulsion system consisted of four steam turbines and a pair of 10-cylinder four-stroke diesel engines.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In sports contexts, use "a pair of strokes" to accurately describe penalties or actions, ensuring clarity and avoiding ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "a pair of strokes" when referring to a singular medical event with multiple symptoms; instead, describe it as a single stroke with varied effects.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a pair of strokes" functions as a noun phrase. It typically serves as the subject or object in a sentence, denoting two separate instances of a stroke, as Ludwig shows. The Ludwig AI agrees that the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Wiki

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a pair of strokes" is a grammatically sound noun phrase used to describe two separate occurrences of a stroke. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and suitable for use in writing. Its usage spans from medical contexts to sports, though it maintains a neutral tone. While not exceedingly common, as evidenced by Ludwig's examples, the phrase serves to clearly specify the occurrence of two distinct events, differentiating them from a singular, more complex event. Alternative phrasing includes "two strokes" or "a couple of strokes" for slightly less formal contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

two strokes

A more direct and simple way of saying the same thing; reduces the emphasis.

a couple of strokes

Uses a different synonym for "pair", slightly less formal.

paired strokes

Highlights the association or relation between the strokes.

two penalty shots

Specifically used in sports contexts where strokes result in penalties.

successive strokes

Emphasizes the sequential nature of the strokes.

double fault

Specific to tennis, indicating two failed serves.

double strokes

Implies a combination or doubling of effort or penalty.

two attempts

Focuses on the effort or try rather than the specific action.

a couple of attempts

Similar to 'two attempts' but less formal and more conversational.

dual strikes

Emphasizes the impact or force behind the actions.

FAQs

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

You can use "a pair of strokes" to describe medical events, like "His erratic behavior was influenced by "a pair of strokes" he suffered". It's also applicable in sports, such as golf, to describe actions.

What's a less formal way to say "a pair of strokes"?

Alternatives include "two strokes" or "a couple of strokes", which are slightly more conversational while retaining the same basic meaning.

When is it appropriate to use "a pair of strokes"?

"A pair of strokes" is suitable when specifically referring to two distinct instances of a stroke, whether in a medical context or metaphorically, where two separate actions or events are being described.

Is "a pair of strokes" only used in medical contexts?

No, while it often appears in medical contexts, as Ludwig shows, "a pair of strokes" can be used more broadly to describe two separate actions or events, such as in sports like golf, where it might refer to penalty strokes.