a set of scales

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a set of scales" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a collection of weighing devices or instruments used for measuring weight or balance. Example: "The chef used a set of scales to ensure the ingredients were measured accurately for the recipe."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

41 human-written examples

A set of scales he developed for a German company was copied by a Chinese company.

The New York Times - Travel

Put the cards on a set of scales - I've outlined a downside, what is the upside?

The Guardian - Opinion

Justice is often portrayed as holding a set of scales in equilibrium.

The New York Times

She holds a set of scales in one hand; in the other, she holds the whole world.

The Guardian

From these conditions a set of scales is derived that define the channel state.

Developments in Earth Surface Processes

He and a part-time worker are using one shovel, a homemade sifter, a cement mixer filled with cleaning fluid and a set of scales.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

19 human-written examples

A set of scale-up criteria then scales-up these parameters.

Minerals Engineering

He brought back a set of scale drawings that showed the Trade Center site in comparison with other parts of Manhattan.

The New Yorker

The experimental conditions are designed by a set of scaling criteria for the gas hydrate reservoir.

Applied Energy

In the exploration stage the environment is partitioned into locations, each characterized by a set of scale-invariant keypoints.

Robotics and Autonomous Systems

The output is a set of scaling factors that represent the ratios of the performance upgrades for processing elements.

Journal of Parallel and Distributed Computing

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a set of scales", ensure the context clarifies whether you're referring to physical weighing devices or a metaphorical concept of balance and judgment. For literal usage, specify the type of scales if relevant (e.g., analytical, kitchen, industrial).

Common error

Avoid using "a set of scales" in contexts where the reader might misinterpret it as a physical object when you intend a metaphorical meaning of balance or justice. Provide clear context to prevent ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a set of scales" primarily functions as a noun phrase, acting as a subject or object in a sentence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's used to refer to either physical weighing devices or a metaphorical representation of balance and judgement. Many examples show it used in News & Media and scientific contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Science

33%

Academia

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a set of scales" is a versatile noun phrase commonly used to describe both physical weighing devices and the abstract concept of balance or judgment. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is grammatically correct and widely accepted. It appears frequently in various contexts, especially in News & Media and Science, with a neutral register that adapts to the specific situation. When employing the phrase, consider the potential for ambiguity between literal and metaphorical meanings, ensuring your context provides sufficient clarity. Related phrases like "weighing scales" or "balance scale" can offer more precision when necessary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

weighing scales

This alternative uses the more specific term "weighing" to emphasize the function of the scales.

measuring scales

Similar to "weighing scales", this phrase highlights the act of measuring.

a balance scale

This alternative specifies the type of scale, referring to a scale that uses balance to measure weight.

a set of balances

Using "balances" emphasizes the equalizing aspect of measurement.

a collection of scales

This alternative emphasizes the plurality of scales, focusing on the group rather than the specific purpose.

a weighing instrument

Replaces "scales" with the more formal "instrument".

a weighing apparatus

This phrase uses a more formal term, "apparatus", to refer to the equipment used for weighing.

scale equipment

A more concise way to refer to the devices.

a system of scales

Emphasizes the scales being part of a larger, organized structure.

measurement tools

This broader term encompasses various tools used for measuring, not just weight.

FAQs

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

You can use "a set of scales" to refer to physical weighing instruments, as in "The baker used "a set of scales" to measure the flour". It can also be used metaphorically to represent balance or judgment, like "The legal system aims to provide "a set of scales" for justice".

What's an alternative to saying "a set of scales"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "weighing scales" for physical devices, or phrases like "a sense of balance" or "a system of judgment" for metaphorical meanings.

Is it correct to use "a set of scales" in both literal and figurative contexts?

Yes, "a set of scales" is correct in both literal and figurative contexts. However, ensure clarity in your writing to avoid confusion between the two meanings. Specifying the type of scale or providing context can help.

What is the difference between "a set of scales" and "a balance scale"?

"A set of scales" is a general term that can refer to any collection of weighing devices. "A balance scale" specifically refers to a type of scale that uses a balance mechanism to measure weight, comparing an unknown weight to a known weight.