string

USAGE SUMMARY

"string" is a correct and usable word in written English.
It is a noun that can refer to a thin cord of twisted fibers, such as a shoelace, or a series of items or events joined together. Examples: 1. I used a string of ribbon to hang the decorations. 2. The playwright's latest work is a complex string of interweaving stories.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But it must also be said that his tenure also coincided with Rangers' worst-ever run of competitive results and a record string of Old Firm defeats.

The Guardian - Sport

Enraged by a string of perceived refereeing injustices, Napoli's players refused to attend the post-game medal ceremony.

The Guardian - Sport

For a week I schedule a string of yoga and surfing classes and resolve to explore the wonders of Byron Bay.

The Guardian - Travel

Attach a piece of elastic or string at each hole, adjusting it to fit the wearer Show us your Dollys and Jacks – we'd love to see pictures of what they get up to.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The minister's letter concedes it has never been universally loved, but points out that in 1979 and 1980, soon after it opened, it won a string of construction and design awards.

The Guardian - Arts

When the next person wishes to talk they pass on the main ball of string but keep hold of one section.

The Guardian

Add jittery electronic beats, Björk's powerful voice and a string section, and you've just about got a sense of the latest album from Iceland's reigning queen of experimental pop.

The Guardian - Music

The record producer noted that López appeared to be backing his ambitions with an aggressive string of promotional narcocorridos with lyrics that are becoming increasingly bellicose.

The Guardian

Many in the newsroom have reacted angrily following a string of hirings from outside the organisation over the past year, since former Times editor James Harding was appointed director of news and current affairs.

The Guardian

Cowell wouldn't be bothered by the string of abusive reviews; he'd be used to that.

The Guardian - Film

Now, at the tender age of 72, he is preparing to add a new string to his bow.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "string" to describe a series of events, ensure the connection between the events is clear to maintain coherence.

Common error

Avoid using "string" loosely in technical writing when a more specific term like "sequence", "series", or "chain" would provide greater clarity.

Linguistic Context

The word "string" functions primarily as a noun, denoting either a physical cord or a sequence of items or events. Ludwig provides examples where it signifies a series of occurrences, such as "a string of successes". It can also function as a verb, meaning 'to thread'.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "string" is a versatile term used both as a noun and a verb. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and commonly used. It refers either to a physical cord or a sequence of items or events. It frequently appears in News & Media, Formal & Business, and Science contexts. When describing a series of events, clarity is essential. The register is generally neutral, making it suitable for various writing styles. Ludwig's examples show its ability to describe, narrate, and explain. While broadly applicable, being mindful of the context and using more specific terms when appropriate ensures clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

series

Emphasizes the sequential nature of items, akin to a "string" of events.

sequence

Highlights the ordered arrangement, comparable to items on a "string".

succession

Implies a following one after another, like a "string" of occurrences.

strand

Focuses on a single component of a larger entity, similar to a "string" in some contexts.

chain

Suggests interconnectedness, much like links in a "string".

line

Indicates a linear arrangement, similar to objects aligned on a "string".

thread

Highlights a thin, continuous strand, a more delicate sense of "string".

cord

Refers to a physical rope or line, a more concrete interpretation of "string".

train

Implies a connected series, like a "string" of railway cars.

rope

Represents a stronger, thicker version of a "string".

FAQs

How can I use "string" in a sentence?

You can use "string" to refer to a thin cord, as in "tie the package with a "piece of string"", or to a series of events, such as "a "string of successes"".

What are some synonyms for "string"?

Depending on the context, you can use words like "cord", "rope", "series", "sequence", or "strand" as alternatives to "string".

Is it correct to say "a string of errors"?

Yes, "a "string of errors"" is a correct and commonly used phrase to describe a series of mistakes.

What's the difference between "string" and "thread"?

"String" is generally thicker and stronger than "thread". "Thread" is typically used for sewing, while "string" can be used for various purposes requiring more strength.