pair of legs

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "pair of legs" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to two legs as a unit, often in contexts related to anatomy, movement, or clothing. Example: "The athlete's pair of legs propelled him to victory in the race."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Chilopods have only one pair of legs per body segment.

University of California, Berkeley

The fifth pair of legs is flattened for swimming.

Britannica

Fittingly, it is a giant pair of legs.

The Guardian - Arts

This season, nothing beats a great pair of legs.

The New York Times

"We just have a vest and a pair of legs".

The New York Times

For instance, Colbert has gained a pair of legs.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Another painting shows a pair of legs in a bathtub.

The New York Times

So the researchers built in a horizontal strut that stabilized each pair of legs.

Harvard University

Like any good dancer, Amy Purdy has a great pair of legs.

The Washington Post

The anterior pair of legs are held above the head and used as tactile organs.

Britannica

In these animals, the fifth (hindmost) pair of legs are flattened into paddles for swimming.

Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing animals or objects with two legs, use "pair of legs" to clearly indicate the presence of two legs functioning as a unit.

Common error

Avoid using "pair of leg" when referring to two legs; always use the plural "legs" to maintain correct grammatical agreement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pair of legs" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence. It refers to two legs considered as a unit. As Ludwig AI explains, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Encyclopedias

25%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Science

10%

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "pair of legs" is a grammatically correct and commonly used noun phrase to describe two legs considered as a single unit. As Ludwig AI confirms, it appears frequently in various contexts, including news, encyclopedias, and academic writing. While alternatives like "lower limbs" exist for more formal settings, "pair of legs" is generally suitable for most situations. It's important to ensure correct grammatical agreement by always using the plural form "legs". The phrase evokes imagery related to movement, support, and physical characteristics. With its widespread usage and clear meaning, "pair of legs" remains a reliable and effective way to refer to this essential part of the human or animal anatomy.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

set of legs

Replaces "pair" with "set", emphasizing a collection rather than a duality.

two legs

Directly states the quantity, removing the implied unity of a pair.

lower limbs

A more anatomical term for legs.

supporting legs

Highlights the function of the legs in providing support.

leg assembly

Describes the legs as a constructed unit or component.

pedal extremities

A more formal and technical description of legs.

ambulatory appendages

Emphasizes the legs' role in locomotion.

propelling limbs

Focuses on the function of legs in generating movement.

standing supports

Describes legs as the foundation for upright posture.

matched legs

Emphasizes the similarity or compatibility of the legs.

FAQs

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

You can use "pair of legs" to describe the physical attributes of a person or animal, such as "The runner had a strong "pair of legs"" or in more figurative contexts.

What's a more formal way to say "pair of legs"?

For a more formal tone, consider using "lower limbs" especially in medical or anatomical contexts.

Is it ever correct to say "pair of leg"?

No, it is grammatically incorrect. Always use ""pair of legs"" when referring to two legs functioning as a set. The term "legs" should always be plural.

What kind of imagery does "pair of legs" evoke?

The phrase "pair of legs" often brings to mind ideas of movement, strength, or physical appearance, depending on the context. For instance, it can suggest athletic prowess or physical attractiveness.