a pair of wings

USAGE SUMMARY

"a pair of wings" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to two wings on an animal or an object, for example, an airplane. An example sentence might be, "The dove had a pair of wings that were white and fluffy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

Ma'ayan replied with fervent request for a pair of wings.

The New York Times

All he needs is a pair of wings.

The New York Times

The T-shirt depicted a pair of wings and the text "Let It Fly".

The New York Times

I found it hard to relate to myself when I had a pair of wings on my back.

The Guardian

From the shoulders slowly a pair of wings unfolded, wings made of rainbows, of light upon water, of poetry".

The New Yorker

Finally, she uncovers an expansive tattoo on her back and shoulders: a pair of wings inscribed with "Freedom to fly".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

Here he produced another interesting shift, with three at the back and a pair of wing-backs who shuttled back into a five-man line with neurotic caution.

The Guardian - Sport

The gynostemium just below stigma is adorned with a pair of wing-like projections, not found in Dasyglossum.

Botanical Studies

When not shooting anything with four legs or a pair of wings--ahem, with a camera--she's using her BS in Psychology to self-diagnose.

Huffington Post

Each side should have a pair of wing, a top wing and a base wing.

WikiHow

If you're going for a more of a "swinger" style, pick up a pair of wing tips or oxfords.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing technical content, specify whether the wings are literal (e.g., on an insect) or metaphorical (e.g., parts of a building).

Common error

Avoid misspelling "pair" as "pear." "Pair" refers to two items that are used together, while "pear" is a fruit. Ensure you use the correct spelling to avoid confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a pair of wings" functions primarily as a noun phrase. According to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct. It typically acts as the object of a verb or the subject of a sentence, referring to two wings considered as a set.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Academia

20%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a pair of wings" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase. It generally serves a descriptive purpose, identifying something with two wings that function as a set. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely accepted and appropriate for use in various contexts. From news reports and academic papers to informal writing, the phrase conveys the image of wings, often symbolizing freedom or flight. When using the phrase, ensure correct spelling and consider the symbolic connotations associated with wings to enhance your writing. Remember that this phrase can be used both literally and metaphorically.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

set of wings

Emphasizes the collection or grouping of wings, rather than the pair.

two wings

Focuses on the quantity of wings, lacking the connotation of a matched set.

wings

A more general term that doesn't specify the quantity.

appendages for flight

A formal and technical way to refer to wings, suitable for scientific contexts.

flight feathers

Highlights the feathers that enable flight, rather than the wings themselves.

a means of flying

Shifts the focus from the physical structure to the function of flight.

instruments of flight

Suggests a tool or mechanism used for flying.

wings of freedom

Implies a metaphorical use of wings, symbolizing liberty.

pinions

A more poetic and literary term for wings, often used in metaphorical contexts.

propellers

Relates to the flight of artificial artifacts like airplanes. Not directly related to wings.

FAQs

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

You can use "a pair of wings" to describe literal wings on a bird, insect, or mythical creature, or metaphorically to represent freedom or potential. For example, "The angel statue had a magnificent pair of wings."

What is the symbolic meaning of "a pair of wings"?

Symbolically, "a pair of wings" often represents freedom, escape, aspiration, spirituality, and the ability to rise above challenges. It can also symbolize protection or divine guidance.

What can I say instead of "a pair of wings" to describe an aircraft?

When describing an aircraft, you could use terms like "airplane wings", "aircraft wings", or simply "wings".

Is it ever appropriate to use "a pair of wings" metaphorically?

Yes, "a pair of wings" can be used metaphorically to describe something that provides freedom or enables one to achieve a goal. For example, "Education gave her a pair of wings to pursue her dreams."