are a pair of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are a pair of" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to describe two items that are considered a set or a matched pair. For example, "The shoes I bought for my daughter are a pair of pink wellies."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

We are a pair of idiots.

The Guardian - Film

Greg and Earl are a pair of cinephiles.

The New Yorker

In his neck are a pair of puncture wounds.

The New Yorker

These are a pair of brittle, evolving teams.

The Guardian - Sport

My comfiest are a pair of Betsey Johnson leopard skin with pink soles.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Inside are a pair of massive, graceful Norman arches with zigzag, pie-crust decoration.

The New York Times - Travel

It strikes me that the towers are a pair of Hitchcock blondes.

The New York Times

For all the self-reflexion of their work, they are a pair of buskers.

The New York Times - Arts

Yaki-onigiri are a pair of rice balls roasted crunchy and golden.

The New York Times - Food

The most engaging pieces here are a pair of smoothly carved, elegantly humorous silver giraffes (Johnson).

The New York Times - Arts

The exceptions are a pair of photographs facing each other in the exhibition's second room.

The Guardian - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are a pair of" to clearly indicate that two items or entities are intended to be considered as a set, especially when their relationship or function depends on their being together.

Common error

Avoid using "is a pair of" when referring to items that are inherently plural. The verb should agree with the plural noun, hence "are" is correct.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are a pair of" functions as a descriptor, specifying that two or more items or entities form a set or unit. As noted by Ludwig AI, it’s grammatically sound and appropriate for describing matched or related items.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are a pair of" is a grammatically correct and common way to describe two items or entities that belong together or are considered a set. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is usable in written English and suitable for various contexts. Its usage is prevalent in news and media, science, and general contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that the verb agrees with the plural noun and avoid using it interchangeably with phrases like "are a couple of" when referring to people. By understanding the nuances and appropriate contexts, you can effectively incorporate "are a pair of" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exist as a couple

Implies a close relationship or inherent connection between the entities.

are coupled

Similar to "exist as a couple", but slightly more formal.

constitute a duo

Emphasizes the combination of two elements into a single, recognized unit.

function as partners

Stresses the collaborative or cooperative aspect of the entities.

form a twosome

Highlights the togetherness or suitability of two entities.

work in tandem

Focuses on the coordinated action of two entities.

comprise a set of two

Focuses on the numerical aspect and the concept of a collection.

are binary

Suggests a system composed of two parts or elements.

are twinned

Suggests a close resemblance or mirroring between the entities.

make up a brace

Typically used for animals or birds, implying a matched pair.

FAQs

How do I use "are a pair of" in a sentence?

Use "are a pair of" to describe two items or entities that belong together or are considered a set. For example, "The earrings she wore "are a pair of" diamonds".

What are some alternatives to "are a pair of"?

Alternatives include "constitute a duo", "form a twosome", or "comprise a set of two", depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "is a pair of"?

No, it's generally incorrect to say "is a pair of" because the verb should agree with the plural noun implied by "pair". The correct form is ""are a pair of"".

What is the difference between "are a pair of" and "are a couple of"?

While both phrases indicate two entities, ""are a pair of"" typically refers to inanimate objects or items that are meant to be together, while "are a couple of" often refers to people in a romantic relationship or two closely related things.