combination of

USAGE SUMMARY

"combination of" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when discussing two or more components that are combined to form something new. For example, "The scientist developed a new type of fuel using a combination of renewable resources."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A combination of those.

The New York Times

A combination of the above?

Independent

It's a combination of both.

The New York Times

Some combination of them all?

The New Yorker

A combination of both?

The Guardian

Enright possesses an unusual combination of talents.

The New Yorker

What combination of letters is most likely?

The New York Times

Usually it is a combination of both.

The New York Times - Arts

It is a combination of factors.

Independent

This combination of effects equalizes the lift.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"She is a neat combination of both".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "combination of", ensure that the elements being combined are clearly defined and relevant to the context. This helps to avoid ambiguity and strengthens the overall message.

Common error

Avoid using "combination of" vaguely. Always specify what elements are being combined to provide clarity and context for the reader. For example, instead of saying 'It's a combination of factors', specify 'It's a combination of economic and social factors'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "combination of" functions as a prepositional phrase acting as a noun modifier or a subject complement. As Ludwig confirms, it introduces the elements that are being joined or merged. It identifies the components that together form a new entity or concept.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

19%

Wiki

16%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Academic

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "combination of" is a versatile and frequently used phrase that helps specify multiple elements contributing to a particular outcome. As Ludwig AI confirms, its grammatical correctness and varied usage across sources like The New York Times and BBC solidify its reliability. To use it effectively, remember to clearly define the combined elements, avoiding vague statements. Consider related phrases like "blend of" or "mixture of" to add nuance to your writing. By following these guidelines, you can enhance the clarity and precision of your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

blend of

Implies a smoother, more integrated mix of elements.

mixture of

Suggests a less uniform amalgamation, where elements may still be distinct.

amalgamation of

Refers to a more formal or structured combining of entities.

synthesis of

Indicates the creation of something new from combining different ideas or elements.

fusion of

Suggests a merging of elements that results in a unified whole.

interplay of

Highlights the interaction and influence between combined elements.

confluence of

Emphasizes the flowing together of different elements.

convergence of

Suggests elements moving towards a single point or purpose.

marriage of

A more figurative expression for the harmonious combining of distinct elements.

integration of

Highlights how different things are made to work as a unit.

FAQs

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

You can use "combination of" to describe something formed by merging multiple elements, such as, "The success of the project was due to a combination of hard work and good planning."

What are some alternatives to "combination of"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "blend of", "mixture of", or "amalgamation of".

Is it better to say "combination of" or "combining of"?

"Combination of" is generally preferred when referring to a result or state, while "combining of" is more suitable when describing the process of combining.

What's the difference between "combination of" and "mixture of"?

"Combination of" generally implies a planned or intentional merging, while "mixture of" can suggest a more random or unintentional blend.