pair it with

USAGE SUMMARY

"pair it with" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are suggesting to match or combine two things together. Example: "This top would look great with some black jeans, so pair it with your favorite boots to complete the outfit."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

Pair it with a heavy boot.

The New York Times

Pair it with the lightweight conditioning rinse.

Independent

Pair it with sherry ($6 to $23 a glass).

The New York Times - Travel

Pair it with a T-shirt and low sandals.

The New York Times - Style

I'd pair it with maybe something gamy or a stew".

The New York Times - Food

"They don't want to pair it with hash browns".

The New York Times

Pair it with slim-fitting black trousers – see below.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Or pair it with sweet oranges and watercress.

The New York Times - Food

The key is to pair it with neutrals.

Independent

That is, of course, unless you want to pair it with a Chinese or Thai sauce.

The New York Times

That is especially true when it is so easy to pair it with something else.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "pair it with", ensure that the items you are combining logically complement each other to enhance the overall effect. For example, "Pair it with a bold accessory to make the outfit pop."

Common error

Avoid using "pair it with" to suggest combinations that are logically or functionally incompatible. For instance, "Pair it with a hammer to write a novel" is nonsensical.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pair it with" functions as a phrasal verb that serves as a transitive construction, requiring a direct object. It indicates the action of combining one item with another. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Wiki

22%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Science

6%

Encyclopedias

4%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "pair it with" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrasal verb that suggests combining items for a better result. Ludwig AI validates its common usage across diverse contexts, especially in news and media. When writing with "pair it with", ensure logical compatibility between combined items. It serves to offer suggestions, recommendations, and is appropriate in both casual and formal communication, but most common usage is in a neutral register. Consider alternatives like "match it with" or "combine it with" for variety. Therefore, "pair it with" offers a direct way to suggest suitable combinations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

match it with

This alternative uses a synonym for "pair" to suggest a similar action of finding a suitable combination.

combine it with

This phrase emphasizes the act of joining two things together to create a unified whole.

team it with

This alternative suggests a collaborative or coordinated combination, often used in fashion or design contexts.

coordinate it with

This option highlights the harmonization of elements to achieve a balanced or aesthetically pleasing effect.

complement it with

This implies that the added element enhances or completes the original item.

accompany it with

Suggests that one item goes well with another, often used when speaking about food and drinks.

harmonize it with

Focuses on creating an aesthetically pleasing arrangement through combination.

integrate it with

Suggests a more thorough blending of elements.

blend it with

Implies a smooth mixing of two or more things.

merge it with

Implies that two separate things become one.

FAQs

What does "pair it with" mean?

The phrase "pair it with" means to combine something with something else, often to create a more complete or harmonious effect. It's frequently used to suggest complementary combinations in fashion, food, or design.

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

You can use "pair it with" to suggest matching or combining items. For example, "This wine pairs well with cheese", or "Pair it with a scarf for a stylish look".

What can I say instead of "pair it with"?

You can use alternatives like "match it with", "combine it with", or "team it with" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "pair it with"?

It's appropriate to use "pair it with" when suggesting items that go well together, either aesthetically or functionally. It implies a sense of synergy or enhancement when the items are combined.