they are a pair

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "they are a pair" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe two items or individuals that are considered together or are complementary in some way. Example: "The shoes are a perfect match; they are a pair that completes the outfit."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

They are a pair.

The New York Times

And they are a pair that Weinstein says he wasn't keen to cross.

Independent

For all the self-reflexion of their work, they are a pair of buskers.

The New York Times - Arts

They are a pair of cloned Bengal kittens, called Tabouli and Baba Ganoush.

The New York Times

They are a pair of equals, more like Bob Hope and Bing Crosby, a temporary team in six "Road" pictures.

The New York Times - Books

"They" are a pair of cardinals that come up from the South on their way to -- Maine?

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

In some ways, they are a pairing of opposites.

The New York Times

From then on, they were a pair.

The New York Times

At a time when good jobs are scarce, they're a pair pursuing separate careers.

The New Yorker

"That certainly doesn't support any idea that they were a pair of racist cowboys".

The New York Times

For this event, they were a pair of 2013 Mustang GTs and a Focus ST.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To enhance clarity, consider using additional descriptive words or phrases like: "They are a mismatched pair," or "They are a perfect pair."

Common error

Avoid using "they are a pair" when referring to more than two items or individuals. Ensure the pronoun "they" clearly refers to exactly two subjects.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "they are a pair" functions primarily as a descriptive statement, characterizing two entities as being related or existing together as a unit. Ludwig AI indicates its grammatical correctness and wide applicability, which makes it a versatile descriptive tool.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Science

9%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "they are a pair" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed expression used to denote a relationship or association between two entities. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is used correctly and is applicable in a variety of situations. Predominantly found in News & Media contexts, the phrase maintains a neutral tone and can be readily substituted with alternatives like "they form a duo" or "they make a couple", depending on the intended nuance. While versatile, it's crucial to ensure clarity in its usage, particularly concerning the identity of the two entities being referenced.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

they constitute a duo

Emphasizes the combination of two entities working together, similar to "they are a pair", but with focus on collaboration.

they form a twosome

Highlights the numerical aspect of two individuals or items forming a group, slightly less common than "they are a pair".

they make a couple

Implies a romantic or close relationship, a specific type of "they are a pair".

they comprise a set

Suggests a collection or grouping of two items, focusing on the compositional aspect.

they are twinned

Indicates a strong resemblance or connection, often used for objects that are very similar.

they are partnered

Suggests a formal or business association. It is more formal than "they are a pair".

they are coupled

It can refer to items being physically connected or two entities working together.

they go together

Indicates that two things are well-matched or complementary. It is less formal than "they are a pair".

they belong together

Indicates an emotional connection or destiny. It is less about logic and more about affection.

they are allies

Specifies a cooperative bond for mutual benefit. It implies a common cause that may not be present in "they are a pair".

FAQs

How can I use "they are a pair" in a sentence?

You can use "they are a pair" to describe two items or individuals that are related or function together. For example, "The socks are a pair" or "The detectives are a pair known for solving difficult cases".

What's the difference between "they are a pair" and "they are a couple"?

"They are a pair" generally refers to any two items or individuals that are related. "They are a couple" usually implies a romantic or close personal relationship.

Are there situations where using "they are a pair" would be inappropriate?

It might be inappropriate if the relationship between the two entities is not clear or relevant to the context. Additionally, avoid using it when referring to more than two items.

What are some alternative phrases to "they are a pair" that I can use?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "they form a duo", "they make a set", or "they go together".