a strange combination

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a strange combination" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe two or more elements that, when put together, create an unexpected or unusual pairing. Example: "The dish was a strange combination of sweet and savory flavors that surprised my taste buds."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Tech

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It's kind of a strange combination of both, taking the best of each and combining them into one bag.

TechCrunch

It is a strange combination, love and smoke, but there is a long streak of strangeness in German art — colors you didn't expect (Caspar David Friedrich, Max Beckmann), Venuses who aren't pretty (Cranach, Altdorfer) — which nevertheless feels like life.

The New Yorker

They're a strange combination.

The Guardian - Tech

It's a strange combination of liberal guilt and condescension".

Independent

"It's a strange combination of our lives," Helen said.

The New Yorker

Dadd's life is a strange combination of violence and inaction.

The Guardian - Arts

I couldn't rationalize my apparently obvious enjoyment of such a strange combination of activities.

The New York Times

She added, "It's a strange combination of both superficial and deep.

The New Yorker

You do!'" Phillips smiles brightly, a strange combination of showbusiness warhorse and youthful exuberance.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

This is a strange combination: the guns have great feedback, but the enemies offer very little.

The Guardian - Tech

As one high-ranking official in the Legislature summed it up: "It's a strange combination.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a strange combination", ensure that the elements being combined are clearly defined to highlight the unexpected or unusual nature of their pairing.

Common error

Avoid using "a strange combination" as a vague descriptor. Provide concrete details about the elements involved to make the description more impactful and understandable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a strange combination" functions as a noun phrase, often acting as a subject complement or object. It describes something by pointing out the unusual nature of its components. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is perfectly acceptable for describing unexpected pairings.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

84%

Tech

3%

Science

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a strange combination" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase for describing unexpected or unusual pairings. Ludwig AI validates its proper usage across diverse contexts. Predominantly found in news and media, the phrase serves to express surprise or curiosity about the juxtaposition of different elements. For alternative expressions, consider "an odd pairing" or "an unusual mix". When using "a strange combination", ensure clarity and specificity to enhance its descriptive impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an odd pairing

This alternative focuses on the unexpected juxtaposition of two elements.

an unusual mix

This option emphasizes the uncommon nature of the blend.

a peculiar blend

This phrase suggests a certain eccentricity or quirkiness in the combination.

a curious mixture

This highlights the intriguing and perhaps puzzling nature of the combination.

a surprising fusion

This alternative emphasizes the unexpected merging of different elements.

an unlikely alliance

Suggests that the involved parties are not who you would expect to pair together.

a contradictory mix

Highlights the contrast and potential conflict within the combination.

an incongruous pairing

This emphasizes the lack of harmony or compatibility between the elements.

a jarring juxtaposition

This alternative suggests a harsh or unsettling contrast between the elements.

a clashing blend

It focuses on the conflicting or discordant nature of the combined elements.

FAQs

How can I use "a strange combination" in a sentence?

You can use "a strange combination" to describe any situation where disparate elements are unexpectedly brought together. For example, "The restaurant offered a strange combination of Italian and Mexican dishes."

What can I say instead of "a strange combination"?

You can use alternatives like "an odd pairing", "an unusual mix", or "a peculiar blend" depending on the specific context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "a strange combination of"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. The phrase "a strange combination" is typically followed by "of" and then the elements that are being combined. For example, "a strange combination of sweet and savory."

What's the difference between "a strange combination" and "a unique combination"?

"A strange combination" emphasizes the unexpected or unusual nature of the pairing, while "a unique combination" simply highlights the distinctiveness or singularity of the pairing, without necessarily implying that it's odd.