contending pairs

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "contending pairs" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe two opposing entities or groups that are in competition or conflict with each other. Example: "In the debate, the contending pairs presented their arguments passionately, each trying to sway the audience to their side."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

The last deal of the event gave contending pairs a chance for a big gain.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Prosecutors contend the pair wanted to spread fear to extort $10 million from local governments.

The New York Times

Before long, our beleaguered Ivy Leaguer must contend with a pair of jealous women, a pair of thick-headed apprentice wise guys, a pair of kinky F.B.I. agents (Eric Stoltz and Rebecca Gayheart), and the effects of three sugar cubes soaked in the super-potent original formula for LSD.

The New York Times

The prosecution contends that the pair were arguing.

The Guardian

But Smith will have to contend with the pair of them — an Ortiz on each flank.

The New Yorker

Prosecutors contend that the pair were planning to single out children to spread panic.

The New York Times

When Chris and a friend find fifty thousand dollars hidden beneath the floorboards at a job site, they must contend with a pair of sadistic ex-cons eager to reclaim the money, stolen during a jewelry heist years earlier.

The New Yorker

This, the pair contend, would reveal many companies to be in much worse shape than they now appear, given plausible scenarios for how policy in these areas might one day develop.This scenario-planning might seem like a lot of extra work about stuff that is only hypothetical, and thus a burdensome extra cost.

The Economist

Although they lead wildly different lives (fictional Issa works in the nonprofit sector with underprivileged kids, while Molly is a high-powered lawyer) the pair contend with the same everyday problems: how, as African American women, to find quality relationships; how to fit in with their majority white work environments; how to avoid "hotep n*ggas".

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Modoff agrees, and contends that the pair of smart phone heavyweights will take 5% of the market (in terms of cell phones shipped), but account for a whopping 58% of market share.

TechCrunch

As we know from previous sections, Rickert contends that the pair of concepts nature/psyche does not withstand the heterological test, in that what is not nature can be either psyche or timelessly valid value.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "contending pairs", ensure the context clearly establishes the nature of their competition or conflict. Be specific about what they are contending for or against.

Common error

Avoid using "contending pairs" when the relationship is merely cooperative or collaborative. The phrase implies a direct competition or conflict.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "contending pairs" primarily functions as a noun phrase, where "contending" acts as a descriptive adjective modifying the noun "pairs". Ludwig confirms its usability in describing groups in competition, for example as "the contending pairs presented their arguments".

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "contending pairs" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe two groups actively competing or opposing each other. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and common usage. While not extremely frequent, its presence across news media and scientific sources indicates its utility in formal and professional contexts. It's important to use this phrase accurately, ensuring a genuine sense of competition or conflict exists between the pairs. Alternatives such as "competing duos" or "rival factions" can provide nuanced substitutes depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

competing duos

Replaces "pairs" with "duos" and "contending" with "competing", emphasizing the rivalry.

contesting factions

Similar to "rival factions", it suggests groups competing for the same goal.

rival factions

Uses "factions" instead of "pairs", focusing on organized groups in opposition.

opposing sides

Highlights the contrast between the two groups involved in a dispute.

warring parties

Emphasizes active conflict and hostility between the pairs.

antagonistic groups

Focuses on the animosity and opposition between the groups.

combative twosomes

Highlights conflict, replacing "pairs" with "twosomes" to specify the number.

disputing parties

Highlights that pairs are in a formal dispute.

challenging teams

Suggests competition, particularly in a structured environment.

conflicting entities

Uses a more formal tone to describe the groups that are at odds.

FAQs

How can I use "contending pairs" in a sentence?

Use "contending pairs" to describe two groups actively competing or opposing each other. For instance, "The debate featured two "contending pairs" presenting different economic policies".

What's a good alternative to "contending pairs"?

Depending on the specific context, alternatives like "competing duos", "rival factions", or "opposing sides" may be suitable.

Is "contending pairs" formal or informal?

"Contending pairs" is generally considered neutral to formal. It is suitable for news reports, academic papers, and business communications, but less common in everyday conversation.

In what situations is it most appropriate to use "contending pairs"?

It is most appropriate when you want to emphasize that two groups are not just different, but actively competing, debating, or fighting against each other for a specific objective or outcome.