every three plates

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "every three plates" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a frequency or interval, typically in contexts involving counting or organizing items. Example: "Please stack the dishes so that every three plates are placed together for easier handling."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

"Keep flipping that pasta every three plates".

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

I eat three plates.

The New York Times

Oh, and three plates and silverware.

The New York Times - Food

You only have three plates.

Vice

Three plates filled with food and three plates distributed via a push across the countertop to three hungry kids.

Huffington Post

Three plates were run for this experiment.

Plosone

Then discard original three plates.

Biological Procedures Online

Each sample spread three plates.

Annals of Clinical Microbiology and Antimicrobials

In the first five months of 2012, for every million license plates read in that state, there were just 2,000 "hits".

Huffington Post

Two plates from every dilution for each temperature at (36 ± 2)°C for (44 ± 4) hrs for bacteria and (22 ± 2)°C for (68 ± 4) hrs for yeast & molds were incubated.

International Journal of Food Contamination

Faecal samples were collected every three days and plated on MRS media to determine Lactobacillus counts in faeces as well as to assess the persistence of the viable probiotic cells in mice gut.

BioMed Research International

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "every three plates", ensure the context clearly defines the action or event occurring in relation to these plates. For example, "Inspect every three plates for defects".

Common error

Avoid ambiguity by clearly stating what happens in relation to "every three plates". Don't leave the reader guessing about the action or process involved.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "every three plates" functions as an adverbial phrase indicating frequency or interval. According to Ludwig, it is correct and usable, modifying a verb or clause to specify how often something occurs in relation to plates. It specifies a repetitive action that happens in a series of three plates.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "every three plates" is a grammatically sound and usable expression indicating a recurring event or action performed in relation to plates. According to Ludwig AI, it's correct and can be used to specify frequency. Its usage contexts are relatively broad, appearing in both news media and scientific domains, though its overall frequency is rare. To enhance clarity, ensure that you specify the action associated with the plates.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

every third plate

Simplifies the phrase while retaining the meaning of a recurring interval.

each set of three plates

This emphasizes grouping in sets of three, rather than a frequency.

for every three dishes

Substitutes "plates" with the more general "dishes".

after each group of three plates

Highlights the completion of a group of three before the next action.

following three plates

Emphasizes sequence and order.

with an interval of three plates

Focuses on the spacing or gap between actions related to plates.

each time three plates are used

Shifts focus to the event of using three plates.

in batches of three plates

Highlights grouping by quantity.

every set of three

Removes 'plates' assuming it's clear from context. More generic.

for each triad of plates

Uses a more formal term ('triad') for a group of three.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "every three plates" to sound more formal?

Consider using phrases such as "for each group of three plates" or "after every third plate" to increase formality.

Is it correct to say "every three plates" or should I use another phrase?

According to Ludwig, "every three plates" is correct and usable. However, the most appropriate phrase depends on the specific context and desired level of formality. You might also consider alternatives like "every third plate" or "each set of three plates".

What does "every three plates" mean?

The phrase "every three plates" indicates that an action or event occurs repeatedly after each set of three plates. For instance, "Check the temperature of the food on the line every three plates" means you should check the temperature, then check the next two plates without checking the temperature, and check it again on the fourth.

What are some common contexts where "every three plates" might be used?

This phrase is often used in settings where items are handled or processed in a sequence, such as in a kitchen, laboratory, or manufacturing line. Examples include serving food, conducting experiments, or inspecting products.