a stack of paper

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a stack of paper" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to either a literal stack of paper (like a pile of loose paper or a set of stapled or bound pages) or an informal expression for a large quantity of something. For example, you could say "I have a stack of paper to get through before the end of the day".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A stack of paper arrived.

The Guardian

* I cut a stack of paper towels into quarters.

The Washington Post

The kids mobbed a stack of paper crowns in fluorescent colors: orange, green, yellow, and, yes, blue and pink.

The New Yorker

He taught Garrett Snyder how to fan a stack of paper cocktail napkins with the back of his wrist.

The New Yorker

A stack of paper cups stood beside it, and an aluminum honor box labelled "$1" with a sticky note.

The New Yorker

It isn't "I put money in, I'm getting it back". There is no money, it's a stack of paper.

The Washington Post

"I knew I needed help to avoid it being just a stack of paper that sat in my bedside drawer.

The Guardian - Books

It is so juicy that the owner puts a stack of paper napkins on the table when diners order it.

The New York Times

A better option is a sheet-feeding scanner, which allows you to insert a stack of paper.

The New York Times

"I didn't have anything to do, so I took a stack of paper and a hole-punch and I playfully punched holes... then I looked at them.

The Guardian - Books

The admission came after Mr. Smith was given a stack of paper that was withheld from the public record because KPMG said its contents were proprietary.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a physical quantity, use "a stack of paper" to convey the image of multiple sheets neatly arranged.

Common error

Don't confuse "a stack of paper" with measurements of specific quantities of paper, such as "a ream" or "a quire". Use the appropriate term when precision is needed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a stack of paper" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It identifies a collection of paper sheets arranged in a pile. This is validated by Ludwig, as it is correct to use it either literally or as an informal expression for a large quantity of something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Academia

18%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a stack of paper" is a common and grammatically sound noun phrase used to describe a collection of paper sheets. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. While suitable for various contexts, including news, academic writing, and general conversation, it's crucial to distinguish between its literal meaning and possible formal alternatives like "a batch of documents" when required. Keep in mind the level of organization when choosing between "a stack" and "a pile". Accurate use of this phrase enhances clarity and imagery in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a pile of paper

Replaces "stack" with "pile", suggesting a less organized arrangement.

a ream of paper

Specifies a standard quantity of paper, usually 500 sheets.

a batch of documents

Replaces "paper" with "documents", implying more formal content.

a collection of sheets

Uses "collection" and "sheets" to describe the paper in a less specific way.

a quantity of paper

Focuses on the amount of paper rather than its arrangement.

a set of pages

Emphasizes the individual pages within the stack.

a bundle of paper

Uses "bundle" to suggest a loosely tied or wrapped collection.

a mass of paper

Implies a large, possibly disorganized, amount of paper.

a heap of paper

Similar to "pile", suggesting an unstructured and possibly messy arrangement.

paper accumulation

Abstract noun phrase describing the gathering of paper

FAQs

How can I use "a stack of paper" in a sentence?

You can use "a stack of paper" to describe a collection of sheets. For example, "He left "a stack of paper" on my desk".

What's the difference between "a stack of paper" and "a pile of paper"?

"A stack of paper" implies a neater arrangement, while "a pile of paper" suggests a more disorganized heap.

Are there more formal alternatives to "a stack of paper"?

Yes, consider using phrases like "a batch of documents" or "a collection of sheets" in more formal contexts.

Is it ever incorrect to use the phrase "a stack of paper"?

The phrase is grammatically correct and widely accepted. However, ensure it accurately reflects the situation. If the paper is scattered and unorganized, "a pile of paper" might be more appropriate.