pair of helpings

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "pair of helpings" is not standard in written English and may cause confusion.
It could be used in a context where someone is referring to two servings of food, but it is not a common expression. Example: "At the buffet, I decided to take a pair of helpings of pasta and salad."

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

We should be really strong on the boys' side". Helping lead the boys' varsity team is a pair of returners, junior Alex Lambert and senior Nathan Jo.

Los Angeles Times

THE BILL Considering the large helpings of refried beans and rice, prices are a bit on the high side, especially at dinner, when entrees range from $16 to $25 $100 for a pair of tacos).

The New York Times

A pair of friends.

The New Yorker

A pair of dolphins.

The New York Times - Arts

A pair of shoes?

The New York Times

Spare pair of pantyhose.

WikiHow

A pair of tweezers.

WikiHow

A pair of binoculars.

WikiHow

A pair of pliers.

WikiHow

One pair of leggings.

WikiHow

Pair it with a pair of leggings.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

While grammatically correct, consider using more common alternatives like "double serving" or "second helping" for clarity and wider acceptance.

Common error

Avoid using "pair of helpings" in formal writing or professional settings where precise and widely understood language is preferred. Opt for more conventional terms like "two servings" or "double portion" for better clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pair of helpings" functions as a noun phrase, specifying a quantity. While grammatically sound, Ludwig AI highlights its uncommon usage and suggests more conventional alternatives for clarity.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "pair of helpings" is a grammatically acceptable, though uncommon, way to describe two servings of food. Ludwig AI suggests that while understandable, more conventional phrases such as "two servings" or "double portion" are generally preferred for clarity, especially in formal contexts. Usage patterns indicate it appears more frequently in news and media, as well as in wiki content, leaning towards a more informal register. Therefore, while not incorrect, consider your audience and the context when choosing whether to use "pair of helpings" or a more standard alternative.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

double serving

Emphasizes the quantity being twice the standard serving.

second helping

Refers to taking an additional portion after already having one.

ample portion

Suggests a generous amount, focusing on abundance.

generous serving

Highlights the largeness of the amount given.

two portions

Directly states the number of servings.

extra large serving

Indicates a serving size beyond the usual large.

heaping serving

Describes a serving piled high, emphasizing fullness.

double scoop

Commonly used for ice cream or similar items, indicating two scoops.

family style serving

Implies a large serving meant to be shared.

second plateful

Similar to "second helping", referring to refilling one's plate.

FAQs

What does "pair of helpings" mean?

The phrase "pair of helpings" is an uncommon way to refer to two servings or portions of food. It suggests someone is taking two helpings of something.

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

You could say, "At the buffet, I decided to get a "pair of helpings" of pasta and salad." However, alternatives like "double serving" or "second helping" are more common.

What's a better way to say "pair of helpings"?

Consider using "two servings", "double portion", or "second helping" depending on the context. These options are generally clearer and more widely understood.

Is "pair of helpings" grammatically incorrect?

No, "pair of helpings" is not grammatically incorrect, but it is less common and may sound unusual to some. Using more standard phrases will improve clarity and comprehension.