its match

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "its match" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when referring to something that corresponds or is equal to another in quality, strength, or ability. For example, "The athlete finally found its match in the championship." Alternative expressions include "its equal," "its counterpart," and "its rival."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science & Research

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

Finally allowing it to be interpreted through strings, it met its match in a way".

The New York Times

Sunlight is a powerful disinfectant but it may meet its match in health-care inflation.

The Economist

It may, however, have met its match.

The Economist

It seems to have met its match in the greater forces of political inertia.

The Guardian - Opinion

But for the moment it seems to have met its match in Mr. Mas Selamat.

The New York Times

When it comes to recording images, Eastman Kodak has met its match.

The New York Times

If it passes that test, Ebola may finally meet its match.

Science Magazine

Would that mine had its match.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Come fall, it can be moved inside to stand next to its matching seashell- decked mirror.

The New York Times

Sweden won both of its matches to qualify for the final against Italy, which it lost.

The New York Times

Its match-play format creates more adrenaline and better theater than any of golf's major championships.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "its match", ensure the possessive pronoun "its" correctly refers back to a singular, non-human antecedent. For example, "The new technology has met "its match" in the updated regulations."

Common error

Avoid using "it's match" when you mean "its match". "It's" is a contraction of "it is" or "it has", while "its" indicates possession. A correct example is: The company found "its match" in a smaller, more agile competitor.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "its match" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where 'its' is a possessive pronoun modifying the noun 'match'. It indicates something that is equal or comparable to another. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science & Research

14%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Wiki

1%

Science

13%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "its match" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that signifies equivalence or a comparable counterpart. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is commonly found in news and media, science, and encyclopedic contexts. When using this phrase, remember that "its" is a possessive pronoun and should not be confused with "it's". Alternative phrases like "its equal" or "its rival" can provide nuanced variations of the same core concept. The correct and contextually appropriate application of "its match" will enhance clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

its equal

Replaces 'match' with 'equal', suggesting a balance in ability or quality.

its equivalent

Focuses on functional similarity, something that serves the same purpose.

its counterpart

Indicates a corresponding entity in a different context or system.

its correlate

Suggests a mutual relationship or connection.

its rival

Emphasizes competition and opposition rather than simple equivalence.

its competition

Highlights the competitive aspect of finding something that can challenge it.

its challenger

Indicates someone or something that contests its position or dominance.

its pair

Suggests a direct one-to-one correspondence or partnership.

its antagonist

Implies a direct opposition or conflicting force.

its nemesis

Highlights a long-standing and significant rival or enemy.

FAQs

How can I use "its match" in a sentence?

Use "its match" to indicate something that is equal or comparable in quality, strength, or ability to something else. For instance, "The innovative design has met "its match" in the product's robust functionality".

What are some alternatives to saying "its match"?

You can use alternatives such as "its equal", "its counterpart", or "its rival" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "it's match" instead of "its match"?

No, "it's match" is incorrect. "It's" is a contraction of "it is" or "it has", while "its" is the possessive form. The correct phrase is "its match" to indicate possession or belonging.

What does it mean when something 'meets its match'?

When something 'meets its match', it means that it has encountered something or someone that is equally challenging or capable. This can refer to a person, object, or situation.