pair of kites

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "pair of kites" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to two kites that are typically used together or are part of a set. Example: "For our picnic, we brought a pair of kites to fly in the open field."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

He has observed a pair of kites.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Let Fin v)="{ s,t):∃ a pair of kite systems of order v intersecting in s blocks and t+s triangles}.

Discrete Mathematics

The local pair of red kites are circling over the copse of oaks where they nest.

The Guardian

Not a significant moment in their journey passed without a visual metaphor to ram home the point: Rob stomps off from his mates at a path that splits in two directions; a blissful moment of freedom on the beach for the young couple takes place beneath a pair of colourful kites fluttering in the breeze.

Independent

As a pair of red kites, so evocative of this area of Oxfordshire, flew in the wind above Gibb's mansion, the bells of the church opposite started to ring.

BBC

In the 1930s only two breeding pairs of red kites were known to survive in the British Isles, both in central Wales.

The Guardian

And there I was among the sculptured snow ridges and frozen grass on the banks of the Twenty Mile, attached to a giant kite, wearing a pair of skis.

The New York Times - Travel

An especially resplendent one is decorated with a pair of peacocks, and an unusual "bird kite" that resembles an eagle must look even more like the real thing when it is flying.

The New York Times

Holland and Chastain were a pair of deliriously happy teen-agers, high as kites on love and hormones, treating the danger of discovery as an exciting game, hinting at the coming tragedy simply by being utterly oblivious to it.

The New Yorker

Thousands of kites are lost in competition.

The New York Times

The form and size of kites are remarkably varied.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about kites, ensure you specify the type of kites if relevant, such as "a pair of red kites" or "a pair of box kites" to provide more clarity.

Common error

Avoid using vague descriptions like "a pair of kites" without providing context about their appearance, function, or significance. Adding descriptive adjectives enhances the reader's understanding and engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pair of kites" functions as a noun phrase, specifically acting as a subject complement or object in a sentence. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness. As shown in the examples, this phrase can identify what someone observes or possesses.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "pair of kites" is a grammatically sound noun phrase used to describe two kites, as validated by Ludwig. While its occurrence is uncommon, it finds relevance across various contexts, notably in News & Media, Science, and Wiki sources. Using descriptive adjectives can enhance its impact. Ludwig's examples show that it is frequently used for descriptive purposes, and maintains a neutral register, fitting general communication needs. As such, users can confidently employ this phrase, keeping in mind the subtle nuances of each source.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

couple of kites

Replaces "pair" with "couple", a synonym with similar meaning.

two kites

Directly specifies the quantity as "two", simplifying the phrase.

brace of kites

Uses "brace", another term for a pair, often used in hunting or ornithology contexts.

set of kites

Emphasizes that the kites belong together as a set.

duo of kites

Uses "duo" to indicate a pair, lending a slightly more formal tone.

kites in tandem

Suggests the kites are used or flown together, emphasizing coordination.

matched kites

Highlights that the kites are similar or designed to go together.

coordinated kites

Similar to "matched kites", but emphasizes a deliberate arrangement or design.

twin kites

Conveys that the kites are identical or very similar in appearance or function.

flying kites together

Focuses on the activity of flying kites, implying they are a pair by context.

FAQs

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

You can use "pair of kites" to describe two kites that are being used or observed together. For example: "He saw a "pair of kites" soaring above the park".

What can I say instead of "pair of kites"?

You can use alternatives like "couple of kites", "two kites", or "set of kites" depending on the context.

Is it more appropriate to say "pair of kites" or "kites pair"?

"Pair of kites" is the conventional and grammatically correct way to express this concept. "Kites pair" is not standard English.

When is it suitable to use the phrase "pair of kites"?

It's suitable when you want to emphasize that there are two kites and that they are being considered as a unit or group. For example, when discussing a matching set or a coordinated flying activity.