a wire mesh

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a wire mesh" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a type of material made of interconnected wires, often used for fencing, screens, or filters. Example: "The garden was surrounded by a wire mesh to keep out pests and animals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

She continues to use a wire mesh base, padded with foam.

The New York Times - Arts

Place a wire mesh strainer over a bowl, and strain sauce, discarding solids.

The New York Times - Food

Lawyers sit in the center of the room, separated by a wire mesh screen.

The New York Times

This is a wire mesh that covers a whole rucksack and can be chained to a bed or wardrobe.

The Guardian - Travel

After three unsuccessful angioplasties, she received a stent -- a wire mesh tube -- to improve blood flow through one artery.

The New York Times

Hotel room minibars provide considerable stimuli when small liquor bottles are displayed on the refrigerator door, behind a wire mesh.

The New York Times

They are kept in the vault, or inside a wire mesh cage labeled "Gross Functional Objects" elsewhere in the basement.

The New York Times - Arts

Swiss researchers put pairs of female rats — they were littermates — in a cage, separating them with a wire mesh.

The New York Times - Science

Two squat, khaki green portable cabins stand behind a wire mesh fence inside a vast aircraft hangar.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

But there's a built-in flaw: the mill uses a wire-mesh screen.

The New York Times - Magazine

Meanwhile, he slept on an inflatable mattress and, later, a metal cot with a wire-mesh covering.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a barrier, consider if "a wire mesh" adequately conveys the level of security or visibility needed. Alternatives like "chain-link fence" or "screen" might be more appropriate depending on the context.

Common error

Avoid using "a wire mesh" interchangeably with "hardware cloth" or "chicken wire" without understanding their specific gauge and weave. Each has distinct applications based on its construction.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a wire mesh" primarily functions as a noun phrase. It acts as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence, typically describing a tangible object or material. Ludwig AI confirms this usage across numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

40%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a wire mesh" is a versatile and common noun phrase used to describe a material made of interconnected wires. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across various contexts, including news, science, and general writing. While synonyms like "wire netting" or "wire screen" exist, "a wire mesh" serves as a clear and neutral term for describing this type of material. Be mindful of the specific type of mesh and its intended purpose to ensure accurate communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a wire netting

Focuses on the net-like structure of the mesh, emphasizing its use for enclosure or containment.

a wire grid

Highlights the organized, intersecting lines forming the mesh, useful in contexts requiring precision.

a wire screen

Emphasizes the mesh's function as a barrier, filtering or shielding something.

a metal mesh

Specifies the material composition, which can be important in technical or industrial contexts.

a wire lattice

Suggests a more decorative or structural arrangement of wires, often in a regular pattern.

a wire fabric

Implies a flexible, woven quality of the mesh, suitable for applications involving draping or shaping.

a woven wire

Focuses on the manufacturing process of interlacing wires, highlighting its strength and integrity.

a wire web

Evokes a more intricate and interconnected structure, similar to a spider's web.

a wire cloth

Highlights the mesh's use as a material that acts like a cloth, often used for filtering or sifting.

a wire network

Emphasizes the interconnectedness of the wires, forming a complex system.

FAQs

How can I use "a wire mesh" in a sentence?

You can use "a wire mesh" to describe a physical barrier, a filtering device, or a structural component. For example: "The garden was enclosed by "a wire mesh" to protect the vegetables."

What are some synonyms for "a wire mesh"?

Alternatives include "a wire screen", "a wire netting", or "a metal mesh", each emphasizing slightly different aspects of the material.

Is it correct to say "wire mesh" instead of "a wire mesh"?

While "wire mesh" is often used as a compound noun, including the article "a" is grammatically correct when referring to a single instance of the material. Omitting "a" may be suitable in technical contexts or when used attributively (e.g., "wire mesh fence").

What is the difference between "a wire mesh" and "chicken wire"?

"Chicken wire" is a specific type of "a wire mesh" with a hexagonal pattern, typically made of lightweight galvanized steel. It's commonly used for poultry enclosures, while "a wire mesh" can refer to various patterns and gauges used for different purposes.