pair of islands

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "pair of islands" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to two islands that are closely situated or related in some way. Example: "The pair of islands, known for their stunning beaches, attracts tourists from around the world."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

Gilbert's first novel concerns Maine fishermen on a pair of islands that are virtually at war; her protagonist, a smart, observant woman, teaches the uses of cooperation.

The New York Times - Books

It's about a third the size of Manhattan, covering a tropical peninsula and a pair of islands that look, on a map, like crumbs flaking off the mainland.

The New Yorker

DUTCH HARBOR, a fishing port in this town on a pair of islands in the middle of the Aleutians, may be the bleakest, wildest frontier left in America.

The New York Times - Arts

The country consists of a pair of islands in the Atlantic that are 150km apart and an hour's flight from the west coast of Africa.

The Guardian - Travel

Happily, Helsinki offers the ideal compromise in the shape of Suomenlinna, a pair of islands that lie a short ferry-ride from the bustling harbour.

Independent

By 3 a.m., we could see the channel leading to Juneau, a pair of islands dotting the expanse of pure blue.

The New York Times - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

Multiplying estimates of the gene flow parameter by Θ of the receiving population (or by the average of Θ in the case of symmetric migration) yielded estimates of gene flow (Nm) of 0.02 4.5 birds per generation across all pairs of islands and models assumed (Table S3).

Evolutionary Applications

A version of TopHat that made use of mate pairs might consider only pairings of islands where one read from a mate pair maps to each island.

Bioinformatics

In the process the English gained their first Asian possession, a pair of tiny islands, Ai and Run, part of a Moluccan chain called the Bandas.

The New York Times

A couple of summers ago we seized the chance to add a country by making a quick trip to St. Pierre and Miquelon, that pair of French islands off Newfoundland.

The New York Times - Travel

Cooking, eating and entertaining loom large in the life of Cyprus, which, along with Malta, makes up the pair of Mediterranean islands joining the European Union in a few days' time.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about a "pair of islands", ensure that the context clearly indicates whether you are referring to their geographical proximity, political association, or some other relationship.

Common error

Avoid using "pair of islands" when simply referring to two islands that are not related or connected in any significant way. In such cases, using "two islands" is more accurate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pair of islands" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence. It describes a specific quantity and type of geographical feature. As Ludwig AI states, this usage is correct.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "pair of islands" is a grammatically sound and relatively common way to refer to two islands that are somehow connected. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. While alternatives like "two islands" or "couple of islands" exist, "pair of islands" often implies a specific relationship between the islands. It appears most frequently in News & Media and Science contexts, suggesting a neutral register. When using this phrase, ensure that the context makes clear the nature of the connection between the islands.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

two islands

Directly states the quantity of islands, removing the descriptive "pair".

couple of islands

Uses "couple" instead of "pair", implying a similar meaning of two.

island pair

Inverts the order of the words, shifting the emphasis.

island duo

Reverses the structure to emphasize the islands and their pairing.

twin islands

Suggests the islands are similar in some way, like appearance or origin.

two sister islands

Implies a close relationship or similarity between the islands, suggesting they are closely related or share similar characteristics.

a brace of islands

Employs a more archaic term, 'brace', which, like 'pair', means two.

islands in tandem

Indicates that the islands function together or are closely associated.

linked islands

Highlights a physical or strategic connection between the islands.

double island

Emphasizes the concept of a unified island unit composed of two parts.

FAQs

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

You can use "pair of islands" to describe two islands that are closely linked geographically, culturally, or politically. For example, "The "pair of islands" are known for their unique biodiversity."

What are some alternatives to saying "pair of islands"?

Depending on the context, you could use "two islands", "couple of islands", or "island duo".

Is it correct to say "islands pair" instead of "pair of islands"?

While grammatically understandable, "islands pair" is less common and might sound awkward. "Pair of islands" is the standard and more widely accepted phrasing. However "island pair" is also used and accepted.

What does it mean when referring to a "pair of islands"?

Generally, "pair of islands" refers to two islands that are located near each other, share some common feature, or are considered as a single entity for some reason. It implies a connection or relationship between the two islands.