pair of words

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "pair of words" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to two specific words that are often considered together or have a related meaning. Example: "The phrase 'hot and cold' is a common pair of words used to describe contrasting temperatures."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A pair of words.

University of California, Berkeley

"A bewitching pair of words.

The New Yorker

Meanwhile, another pair of words met an opposite fate.

The New York Times

On the reverse side, he scribbles a phone number and a pair of words.

The New Yorker

The volunteers, working on a computer, were asked whether a pair of words rhymed.

The New York Times - Health

Each spread has a pair of words at the bottom — contrasting, emotional words.

The New York Times - Books

Projected onto the wall, a vibrating swarm of tiny lighted dots periodically and briefly coalesces into a pair of words.

The New York Times - Tech

Can you find the word that best matches or parallels the relationship of the given pair of words?

The New York Times

This last pair of words accompanies the title illustration, in which a pair of fish stroll leisurely across a bridge.

The New York Times - Books

Select a pair of words that best expresses a relationship similar to that expressed in the original pair.

The New York Times

So for those who have invested in it, has real estate become the dirtiest pair of words in town?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When analyzing language, use "pair of words" to refer to specific combinations that create meaning or have a particular effect.

Common error

Avoid using "pair of words" when referring to a general group of words in a sentence. Instead, use more general terms like "phrase" or "words" to prevent confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pair of words" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It identifies a specific combination of two words considered as a unit. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

35%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "pair of words" is a grammatically sound and frequently used term across various disciplines. As Ludwig AI confirms, it serves as a noun phrase to denote two words considered together, often for analysis or specific effect. Its usage spans from academic and scientific writing to news media and general communication. While versatile, it's essential to use it accurately when referring to precisely two words, avoiding its application to larger groups. Alternatives such as "two words" or "word combination" can be employed depending on the desired nuance. In summary, "pair of words" is a reliable and effective phrase for specific linguistic contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

two words

A more direct and general way to refer to two words without implying any specific relationship or connection between them.

word combination

Emphasizes the act of combining two words, often implying a deliberate or creative process.

dyad of words

A more formal and technical term for a pair of words, often used in linguistics or academic contexts.

brace of words

An alternative phrase that, while less common, still effectively conveys the idea of a pair.

cluster of words

While generally refers to a larger group, it can sometimes apply to just two words depending on the specific context.

set of words

Broader term including all possible groups of words including two.

couple of words

Uses an informal word indicating the number

word pairing

Highlights the action of pairing two words together, implying a reason or purpose for their combination.

lexical couple

A technical term focused on the vocabulary aspect of a "pair of words".

term of two words

The expression is valid, but focuses on the definition and the concept

FAQs

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

You can use "pair of words" to refer to two words that are related in some way. For example, "'Salt and pepper' is a common pair of words used together".

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

You can use alternatives like "two words", "word combination", or "couple of words" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "a pairs of words"?

No, the correct form is "a pair of words". The word "pair" is already pluralizing the words, so adding an "s" is redundant.

What's the difference between "pair of words" and "group of words"?

A "pair of words" refers specifically to two words, while "group of words" refers to any collection of words, whether it's two or more.