pieces of string

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "pieces of string" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing physical string or metaphorically to refer to something that is indefinite or variable in nature. Example: "When it comes to measuring success, it's not just about the numbers; sometimes it's like trying to compare pieces of string."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They pass, often with pieces of string, secret notes that are called "kites".

The New Yorker

​ From two pieces of string and oil-fattened feathers he made a father.

The New Yorker

The skeletons danced on shipboard; their bones looked like pieces of string dipped in Elmer's glue.

The New Yorker

I stirred, and a hundred pieces of string thickened against my fingers.

The New York Times

Kurt Schwitters' collages utilized pieces of string, rags, wood, wire, nails, and papers.

Encyclopedia Britannica

From two pieces of string and oil-fattened feathers he made a father.

The New Yorker

by Sharon Levy ​ From two pieces of string and oil-fattened feathers he made a father.

The New Yorker

He reached into his shirt and produced a large yellow banner, affixing its top right corner to the building with one of the pieces of string.

The New Yorker

The writer, a poet living in London, was in a pub one time and learned how to make an ingenious knot with two pieces of string.

The New Yorker

In the blackness between the two surfaces the pieces of string, through which the water flows in capillary action, have the whiteness of light.

The New York Times - Arts

Secret Agent Man – Devo Devo took apart the theme to Danger Man and put it back together seemingly with toys, pieces of string, and rubber appliances.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "pieces of string" when you want to emphasize the makeshift or cobbled-together nature of something.

Common error

While "pieces of string" is widely understood, avoid using it excessively in formal writing where more precise or technical language might be more appropriate. Consider alternatives like "lengths of cord" or "sections of filament" for a more polished tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pieces of string" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig examples illustrate its use in describing physical materials or metaphorical concepts. Ludwig AI confirms that it's correct and usable in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

32%

News & Media

56%

Science

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "pieces of string" is a grammatically sound and commonly used noun phrase. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It functions to describe multiple, often small, segments of string, either literally or metaphorically representing fragility or makeshift construction. While appropriate for neutral contexts like news or general writing, consider more precise terminology in formal settings. Examples from Ludwig showcase its versatility, and alternatives like "lengths of string" or "strands of string" can provide stylistic variation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lengths of string

Focuses on the measurement aspect of the string.

bits of string

Emphasizes the small, fragmented nature of the string.

strands of string

Highlights the individual, thread-like components.

segments of string

Implies a defined section or portion of the string.

sections of string

Emphasizes a defined part of the string.

snippets of string

Suggests small, often discarded, pieces.

fragments of string

Highlights the broken or incomplete nature of the string.

scraps of string

Implies leftover or remnant pieces of string.

oddments of string

Refers to miscellaneous or leftover pieces.

remnants of string

Focuses on the remaining parts after something is used.

FAQs

How can I use "pieces of string" in a sentence?

You can use "pieces of string" to describe physical objects, like "The puppet was held together by pieces of string", or metaphorically, like "The evidence was like trying to assemble a puzzle with only pieces of string".

What's a more formal alternative to "pieces of string"?

In formal contexts, consider using terms like "lengths of cord", "segments of filament", or "strands of thread" depending on the specific type of string you're referring to.

Is it ever correct to say "piece of string" instead of "pieces of string"?

Yes, "piece of string" is correct when referring to a single, individual strand or segment. "Pieces of string" refers to multiple such segments.

What are some similar phrases to "pieces of string" that I can use for variety?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "bits of string", "scraps of string", or "remnants of string" to add nuance to your writing.