a set of three

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a set of three" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a collection or group that consists of three items or elements. Example: "The project requires a set of three different designs to choose from."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

$68 for a set of three.

The New York Times

The band released 16 live albums, each a set of three or four CD's.

The New York Times - Arts

We'll have a mop, a mitt and a set of three towels.

The New York Times - Style

They were originally a set of three, but were long ago cut into smaller pieces.

The New Yorker

A set of three digging tools is $146 from nybgshop.org or (718) 81718869.

The New York Times

"Trebles" means a set of three fishing hooks, welded together at opposing angles.

The Guardian

A set of three extra-large padded hangers for coats is $8.99.

The New York Times

A set of three white porcelain bowls from Germany, above, is $98.75.

The New York Times

A set of three includes two blue and one clear in different sizes.

The New York Times

I did enjoy Mr. Alpert's mini-burgers ($10.50), a set of three on soft potato rolls.

The New York Times - Food

Each natural zinc finger recognizes a set of three letters, or bases, on the DNA molecule.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing specific items, follow "a set of three" with a clear description of what constitutes the set to avoid ambiguity. For example, "a set of three screwdrivers".

Common error

Ensure that any verbs or pronouns referring back to "a set of three" agree in number. While "set" is singular, the phrase implies multiple items, so context might require careful consideration of singular vs. plural agreement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a set of three" functions primarily as a quantifier and noun phrase. It specifies a particular quantity (three) and groups them as a set. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating its usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

42%

News & Media

41%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a set of three" is a grammatically sound and versatile expression used to specify a group of three items. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread applicability. It is common in both scientific and journalistic contexts, highlighting its utility in providing precise quantitative information. When using this phrase, ensure number agreement and clearly define the items within the set. While alternatives like "a trio of" or "a group of three" exist, "a set of three" maintains a balance of clarity and formality suitable for various writing scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a trio of items

Replaces "set" with "trio" and "three" with "items", focusing on the collection aspect.

a group of three objects

Substitutes "set" with "group" and "three" with "objects", highlighting the aggregation.

a collection of three elements

Emphasizes the act of gathering "three elements" instead of a predefined "set".

a triad of things

Replaces "set" with "triad", a more specific term indicating a group of three related things.

three-part ensemble

Uses a more formal term "ensemble" to describe a group of three, suitable for artistic or coordinated contexts.

triple arrangement

Focuses on the arrangement or configuration of three items.

a trinity of concepts

Uses "trinity", implying a set of three closely related or inseparable entities.

three combined entities

Highlights the combination of "three entities" into a single unit.

a cluster of three units

Replaces "set" with "cluster" and "three" with "units", depicting a group of closely positioned entities.

a threesome of participants

Employs "threesome", typically referring to a group of three people engaged in an activity together.

FAQs

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

You can use "a set of three" to describe a group of three items. For example, "The artist displayed "a set of three paintings" in the gallery".

What are some alternatives to saying "a set of three"?

Alternatives include "a trio of", "a group of three", or "a triad of", depending on the specific context and desired formality.

Is it more appropriate to use "a set of three" or "three"?

Using "a set of three" emphasizes that the three items are considered a collection or group, while simply stating "three" focuses on the quantity. The choice depends on whether you want to highlight the grouping aspect.

When should I use "a set of three" instead of "several" or "a few"?

"A set of three" is appropriate when the exact number is relevant and important. "Several" or "a few" are used when the precise quantity is not critical, and a general sense of more than two is sufficient.