in a pattern

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in a pattern" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a way of doing something, as if it can be repeated. For example, "I've noticed that she laughs in a pattern every time I make a joke."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

We fit in a pattern.

The Guardian - Tech

We didn't necessarily stay in a pattern".

The New York Times

(Imagine a floor tiled in a pattern that never repeats).

The New Yorker

By definition, crystals' internal structures are arranged in a pattern.

Princeton University

A group of walkers traipsed through the streets in a pattern based on repeating algorithms.

The New York Times

They engaged in "a pattern of racketeering activity, which included numerous acts of fraud," he wrote.

The New York Times

So that's a variation, but it's a variation in a pattern that we're seeing all over.

The Guardian

The atoms were packed in a pattern that could not be repeated.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Arrange strips over the filling in a lattice pattern.

The New York Times - Food

It's built up in a patterning of swirls that you can see in good light.

The New York Times

There is skill in creating a pattern.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in a pattern" to describe recurring behaviors, arrangements, or sequences. For example, describe how data points change "in a pattern" over time, or how objects are arranged "in a pattern".

Common error

Avoid using "in a pattern" when describing truly random or unpredictable events. A pattern implies some level of predictability or repetition.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in a pattern" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase, often modifying a verb or noun to describe the manner or arrangement in which something is done or exists. Ludwig confirms its validity, indicating its widespread use.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Academia

22%

Wiki

11%

Less common in

Science

9%

Formal & Business

3%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "in a pattern" is a versatile and commonly used prepositional phrase that describes a structured or repetitive arrangement, sequence, or behavior. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and finds application across diverse contexts, ranging from academic and scientific writing to news reporting and general descriptions. The most frequent contexts where you can find the expression are News & Media, Academia and Wiki. The high source quality and expert rating confirm its reliability. When using "in a pattern", it's important to ensure that the context involves a genuine, recognizable pattern rather than randomness. Alternatives such as "in a sequence" or "in an arrangement" can provide nuanced variations in meaning depending on the intended emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in a sequence

Focuses on the ordered arrangement of elements.

in an arrangement

Emphasizes the organized disposition of items.

in a specific order

Highlights the particular sequence followed.

following a design

Implies a pre-planned structure.

according to a scheme

Suggests a structured and methodical approach.

in a structured manner

Highlights the organization and deliberate structure.

systematically

Emphasizes the methodical and ordered approach.

methodically

Highlights the careful and organized nature.

following a procedure

Suggests adherence to a set of steps.

in a regular fashion

Emphasizes the consistent and predictable nature.

FAQs

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

You can use "in a pattern" to describe arrangements, sequences, or behaviors that repeat or follow a recognizable order. For example, "The lights flashed "in a pattern"" or "She always organizes her books "in a pattern" based on color".

What are some alternatives to "in a pattern"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "in a sequence", "in an arrangement", or "systematically".

Is it correct to say "arranged in pattern" instead of "in a pattern"?

While "arranged in pattern" is understandable, "in a pattern" is more common and grammatically standard. For example, "The tiles were arranged "in a pattern"" is preferable to "The tiles were arranged in pattern".

What's the difference between "in a pattern" and "in a trend"?

"In a pattern" suggests a specific, often repeating arrangement or sequence. "In a trend" ("in a trend") implies a general direction or tendency over time. For example, sales might increase "in a trend", while decorations are arranged "in a pattern".