extra set of flippers

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "extra set of flippers" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing animals, particularly aquatic ones, or in a metaphorical sense to describe additional resources or tools. Example: "The penguin was born with an extra set of flippers, allowing it to swim more efficiently than its peers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

And Instant Ads are like an extra set of flippers, bumping you back inside when you were about to leave.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

"This is a big enough issue we need an extra set of eyes, an extra judgment".

The New York Times - Sports

"It's an extra set of eyes out there".

The New York Times

I went out there and I played with an extra set of hands, an extra set of legs and an extra heart".

The New York Times - Sports

Carry an extra set of batteries.

WikiHow

An extra set of hands never hurts.

WikiHow

An extra set of batteries and extra charger are also a good idea.

WikiHow

Package the extras neatly: Pack extra sets of clothes.

Huffington Post

"He surfs in Maine year-round with various set of flippers and wet suits.

The New Yorker

The developers of Metroid Prime Pinball, a game which takes advantage of both screens, resolved this problem by placing a second set of pinball flippers at the bottom of the upper screen to give players a reference to work with.

Wikipedia

bring a set of extra bobby pins.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "extra set of flippers" metaphorically, ensure the context clearly establishes the comparison to additional support or assistance.

Common error

Avoid using "extra set of flippers" in contexts where the idea of additional support is not relevant or clear, as this can lead to confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "extra set of flippers" functions as a noun phrase. It typically serves as a direct object or subject complement, describing something that provides supplementary aid. Ludwig shows one example.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Wiki

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "extra set of flippers" is a relatively rare noun phrase that metaphorically represents additional resources or aid. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. It is used across various contexts including news, wikis, and science. When employing this phrase, ensure the context supports the comparison to additional support. Alternative phrases, like "additional pair of fins" or "supplementary swimming aids", may provide clarity or formality depending on your needs.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reserve flippers

Highlights the notion of 'flippers' as being a spare item.

additional pair of fins

Focuses specifically on the fin aspect, replacing the more general term 'flippers'.

spare set of fins

Offers a simpler way of communicating the existence of additional flippers.

substitute pair of flippers

Focuses on the substitution when the original flippers are no longer working properly.

auxiliary flippers

Replaces 'extra' with 'auxiliary' to express the purpose of assistance.

supplementary swimming aids

Replaces the concrete term with a more abstract concept of assistance during swimming.

extra propulsion device

Emphasizes the function of flippers as a means of propulsion.

secondary swimming equipment

Replaces the idea of a mere addition of something with a second tier swimming equipment.

additional means of locomotion

Replaces swimming-specific equipment with general means of movement.

backup swimming gear

Focuses on the idea of having a reserve or substitute for existing gear.

FAQs

How can "extra set of flippers" be used metaphorically?

Metaphorically, "extra set of flippers" can represent additional resources, support, or assistance that provides an advantage in a particular situation. It suggests something that enhances one's ability to navigate or succeed, similar to how "additional support" works.

What are some situations where "extra set of flippers" would be a fitting metaphor?

This metaphor is fitting when discussing a backup plan, supplementary tools for a project, or any situation where having "additional resources" improves the outcome. For example, in business, it might refer to extra funding or a specialized team brought in to solve a problem.

Which is a more common phrase, "extra set of flippers" or "additional resources"?

"Additional resources" is a far more common phrase. "Extra set of flippers" is quite specific and less versatile. You would use "additional resources" in almost any context where something extra is needed.

When should I avoid using "extra set of flippers"?

Avoid using "extra set of flippers" in formal or serious contexts where a more straightforward term like "additional aid" or "supplementary assistance" would be more appropriate. The flippers metaphor may be perceived as too informal or whimsical.