two of a kind

USAGE SUMMARY

"two of a kind" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe two people or things that are very similar and often have some things in common. For example: "My siblings and I are two of a kind - we all have the same sense of humor and love to play basketball."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

Two of a kind.

The New York Times - Sports

'We're two of a kind, Frank,' she said.

The Economist

"They're two of a kind," Dorothy Sloan said, beaming.

The New Yorker

Strauss and Flower are, essentially, two of a kind.

Independent

His father and Samuel, two of a kind.

The New Yorker

15 1 TWO OF A KIND, by Nora Roberts.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

There were three losing trial types designated as one-of-a-kind, two-of-a-kind, and three-of-a-kind, and one winning trial type designated as four-of-a-kind.

Plosone

Jeckyl and Hyde are smaller and they're only two-of-a-kind".

Huffington Post

The example shows a two-of-a-kind trial in which the nonidentical stimulus appears on the third tumbler.

Plosone

The analysis was conducted with Trial Type (one-of-a-kind vs. two-of-a-kind vs. three-of-a-kind) and Stimulus (identical vs. nonidentical) as factors.

Plosone

One-of-a-kind, two-of-a-kind, and three-of-a-kind trials resulted in no reward and direct entry into the ITI.

Plosone

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the connotations of the phrase. While generally positive, it can sometimes imply a shared negative trait or tendency depending on the context.

Common error

Avoid using "two of a kind" for superficial resemblances. The phrase implies a deeper connection or shared essence, not just a passing similarity. Ensure the subjects truly share significant characteristics.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "two of a kind" primarily functions as an idiomatic expression used to describe two people or things that are very similar or alike. Ludwig confirms this widespread usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Encyclopedias

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "two of a kind" is a commonly used idiomatic phrase that describes two people or things that are very similar. Ludwig's analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across various contexts, particularly in News & Media. While generally neutral in register, its specific connotation can vary depending on the situation. Be mindful of the depth of similarity you wish to convey and avoid using it for superficial resemblances. Consider alternatives like ""cut from the same cloth"" or "birds of a feather" for slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cut from the same cloth

This alternative emphasizes a shared origin or set of characteristics.

birds of a feather

This phrase highlights shared interests or behaviors.

peas in a pod

This expression conveys a strong sense of likeness and closeness.

like two drops of water

This alternative underscores an almost indistinguishable similarity.

very similar

This is a direct and straightforward way to express resemblance.

much alike

This option indicates a significant degree of similarity.

of the same ilk

This phrase suggests belonging to the same category or type, often with a negative connotation.

cast from the same mold

This expression implies that two things or people have been created according to the same pattern.

chips off the old block

This alternative refers to someone who resembles their parent, especially in character.

kindred spirits

This phrase indicates a deep connection based on shared values and interests.

FAQs

How can I use "two of a kind" in a sentence?

You can use "two of a kind" to describe people who share similar qualities, like "They're "cut from the same cloth"", or objects that have the same purpose or function.

What does it mean when someone says "two of a kind"?

When someone says "two of a kind", they mean that two people or things are very similar to each other. It implies that they share significant characteristics or qualities.

Which is more common, "birds of a feather" or "two of a kind"?

Both phrases are commonly used, but "birds of a feather" is slightly more prevalent in some contexts. However, the best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What are some synonyms for "two of a kind"?

Some synonyms for "two of a kind" include ""cut from the same cloth"", "birds of a feather", and "peas in a pod". The specific meaning may vary slightly.