in a pair

USAGE SUMMARY

"in a pair" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when two items are related, either intrinsically or due to being intended to be used together. For example, "These shoes come in a pair."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Toss in a pair of earplugs, too.

The New York Times

He is dressed in a pair of pajamas.

The New York Times - Books

We confirmed this mechanism in a pair of experiments.

Harvard Business Review

I ended up doing pictures in a pair of shorts.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

He stuffs in a pair of black wingtips.

The New York Times - Travel

Let's throw in a pair of frolicking groundhogs, as well.

The Washington Post

Gareth had arrived in a pair of luminous orange trousers.

The Times

You wouldn't fight crime in a pair of heels".

The Guardian - Film

Gerald Williams then knocked in a pair with a single.

The New York Times - Sports

He was in a pair of black leather jackets.

The New York Times - Magazine

"I wanted to dance in a pair of jeans".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in a pair" to clearly indicate that two items are intended to be used or considered together, especially when the pairing is essential for function or context. For example, "The gloves are sold in a pair".

Common error

Avoid using "in a pair" when referring to more than two items. Instead of saying "The socks came in a pair of three", clarify that the socks are sold as a set or package.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in a pair" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb. It specifies the manner in which something is presented, sold, or exists. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in describing items that naturally or intentionally come together.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

25%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in a pair" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to specify that two items are presented, sold, or used together. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and utility across diverse contexts. Primarily functioning as an adverbial phrase, it serves to clarify the quantity and arrangement of items, emphasizing their paired nature. Found frequently in News & Media, Academia, and Wiki sources, the phrase maintains a neutral register suitable for various communication scenarios. When using "in a pair", ensure it accurately reflects the quantity and avoid applying it to groups larger than two. Understanding these nuances ensures precise and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

two together

Highlights the collective presence of two items or individuals.

as a duo

Focuses on the togetherness of two entities or items acting in concert.

as a twosome

Emphasizes a close relationship or connection between two people.

coupled together

Stresses the bond or connection between two items.

doubled up

Implies that something is twinned or existing in duplicate form.

side by side

Highlights proximity or coordinated action of two elements.

occurring bilaterally

Emphasizes the symmetry and occurrence of something on both sides.

considered jointly

Implies a deliberate pairing for analysis or consideration.

as a brace

Emphasizes the supportive or complementary nature of the two things mentioned.

existing dually

Emphasizes that something exists in two aspects or capacities.

FAQs

How can I use "in a pair" in a sentence?

Use "in a pair" to describe items that are naturally or intentionally twinned. For example, "The earrings are sold "in a pair"" or "He bought the shoes "in a pair"".

What's a good alternative to saying "in a pair"?

Alternatives include "as a set", "together", or specifying the quantity as "two". The best choice depends on the specific context. For instance, you might say "The gloves are sold as a set" or "They work "as a duo"".

Is it always necessary to specify "in a pair" when referring to items that naturally come in twos?

No, it's not always necessary. For items like shoes or gloves, it's often understood that they come in twos unless otherwise stated. However, for clarity, especially in commercial or descriptive contexts, specifying ""in a pair"" can be helpful.

When is it incorrect to use the phrase "in a pair"?

It's incorrect to use ""in a pair"" when referring to a group of more than two items. For example, you wouldn't say "The batteries came "in a pair" of four"; instead, you'd say "The batteries came in a pack of four".