a set of dishes

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a set of dishes" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a collection of dishes that are typically used together, such as for dining or serving food. Example: "For the dinner party, I decided to use my grandmother's beautiful set of dishes that she passed down to me."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

Each arrived with a set of dishes.

The New York Times

(Grampa recites prices in order to shock the young .Gas cost a dollar for five gallons, with a set of dishes if you filled the tank").

The New Yorker

After the children had gone to bed, and we and our friends sat down to a shimmering table, I felt as if I was liberating a set of dishes from decades of oppression.

The New York Times

Viewers' attention will be caught by utilitarian objects like a set of dishes, jars and implements for the tea ceremony that are decorated with writing or at least allude to writing.

The New York Times

"I am shocked because my mom was buying here when Arthur's mother and father were here, and my mom is 72," said Artrelle Dukes, 43, who was waiting to pay for a set of dishes that her daughter would take back to college.

The New York Times

The dessert served up in its early pages is zesty, with lots of good stuff about what happens when you eat only raw food (you starve to death), but then the reader is obliged to champ through a set of dishes heavier on seasoning than on substance.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

The Venetian Hotel, owned by Mr. Adelson, keeps a set of kosher dishes for special events.

The New York Times

A lot of times people will find only a set of four dishes, and they'll pass it up, even though they like the pattern.

The New York Times

The problems revolve around the operation of the Allen Telescope Array (ATA), a set of radio dishes dedicated to looking for alien signals.

The Guardian

A week or so after the estate sale, I opened a package expecting to see a favorite salt shaker and a set of toy dishes from the 60's that I was quite fond of.

The New York Times

A set of clean dishes stands at attention in a drying rack, and there are stacks of canned vegetables, bags of dry cereal and small butane cans for cooking.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the dishes, specify the material (china, porcelain, ceramic) and style (modern, vintage, rustic) to provide a clearer picture.

Common error

Avoid using "a set of dishes" to refer to disposable plates or cutlery. This phrase implies a reusable collection, not single-use items.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a set of dishes" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It denotes a collection of tableware items. Ludwig provides numerous examples showing its use in various contexts, affirming its grammatical correctness and common usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

20%

Science

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a set of dishes" is a common and grammatically sound noun phrase used to describe a collection of tableware. According to Ludwig, its usage spans various contexts, but is most frequent in News & Media. While versatile, it’s important to differentiate this phrase from single-use items. Common alternatives include "dish set", "dinnerware", and "tableware". The Ludwig AI confirms its correct and versatile usage across different registers.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

dish set

Concise variation of the original phrase, omitting "a" and "of" for brevity.

tableware set

Replaces "dishes" with the broader term "tableware", encompassing all items used for setting a table.

crockery collection

Uses "crockery" as a synonym for dishes and "collection" for set, indicating a curated or gathered assortment.

dinner service

Refers to a complete set of dishes used for serving a meal, implying a formal or complete arrangement.

china set

Specifies the material of the dishes, limiting the set to those made of china.

place setting

Refers to the arrangement of dishes and cutlery for one person at a table.

complete dishware

Highlights the completeness of the set, implying all necessary items are included.

matching dishes

Emphasizes the coordinated nature of the dishes, suggesting they are designed to be used together.

coordinated tableware

Similar to "matching dishes" but uses the broader term "tableware" for a more inclusive scope.

dinnerware ensemble

Emphasizes a stylistic, put-together feel for the set.

FAQs

How can I use "a set of dishes" in a sentence?

You can use "a set of dishes" to describe a collection of tableware, such as "She received "a set of dishes" as a wedding gift" or "We need "a set of dishes" for the dinner party".

What's the difference between "a set of dishes" and "tableware"?

"Tableware" is a broader term that includes dishes, cutlery, glassware, and serving pieces. "A set of dishes" specifically refers to plates, bowls, and sometimes cups and saucers.

Which is correct, "a set of dishes" or "a dish set"?

Both "a set of dishes" and "a dish set" are correct and commonly used, although "a set of dishes" is slightly more formal. The shorter version is more concise.

What can I say instead of "a set of dishes"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "dinnerware", "crockery", or "tableware". For example, "We bought new dinnerware for the holidays".