two sets of contenders

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "two sets of contenders" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to two distinct groups of individuals or teams competing in a particular context, such as a competition or tournament. Example: "In the final match, we had two sets of contenders, each showcasing their unique skills and strategies."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

There appear to be two sets of contenders for speaker.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Five sets of tees.

Forbes

BEST FILM The Social Network The expanded list makes for an unusually deserving set of contenders.

The Guardian - Film

Cardiff-born Morse, 23, is one of four discus contenders battling for three Team GB places.

BBC

Nunes and Shevchenko are two of those contenders.

Los Angeles Times

Macbeth, which was shot on the Isle of Skye, is one of the contenders for the Palme d'Or – the 12-day festival's top prize – which is set to will be announced.

Independent

Two thirds of the contenders for best film are based on historical events.

The Guardian - Film

One of the contenders for the crown is the design team of Tommaso Aquilano and Roberto Rimondi.

The New York Times

Encouragingly, two of the leading contenders are black.

The Economist

Two of the top contenders, Bautista and the Yankees' Curtis Granderson, are taking different approaches.

The New York Times - Sports

"The forecast for the week isn't promising, which will frustrate two of the title contenders".

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "two sets of contenders" when you want to clearly differentiate between two distinct groups competing for the same goal. This phrasing is useful in contexts where the groups might have different strategies, compositions, or origins.

Common error

Avoid using "sets of" when a simpler word like "groups" or "teams" suffices. Overusing "sets of" can make your writing sound stilted or unnecessarily formal. For example, instead of "two sets of options", use "two option groups".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "two sets of contenders" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies two distinct groups or collections of individuals or entities that are in competition with each other. As shown by Ludwig, this phrase is commonly used to describe competing parties in elections, sports, or other contests.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

17%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "two sets of contenders" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe two distinct groups competing for a common goal. According to Ludwig, while grammatically correct, the phrase is relatively rare, and appears primarily in news and media contexts. When writing, consider whether simpler alternatives like "two groups of competitors" might be more appropriate, and avoid overusing "sets of" unnecessarily. When you need to emphasize the competitive character of structured groups, the expression is perfectly fitting.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

two groups of competitors

Replaces "sets of contenders" with a more general term for competing groups.

both competing sides

A simpler alternative, highlighting the competition between the two groups.

two teams of challengers

Substitutes "sets" with "teams" and "contenders" with "challengers", emphasizing a competitive aspect.

a couple of contending factions

Replaces "two sets" with "a couple" for simplicity, while maintaining a similar meaning.

the two competing factions

Emphasizes internal division or conflict between groups.

both sides in the competition

Focuses on the competitive aspect, framing the contenders as opposing "sides".

the pair of rival camps

Highlights the adversarial relationship between the contenders.

the two opposing parties

Suggests a more formal or structured opposition between the groups.

the brace of competing entities

A more formal and somewhat archaic way of expressing two competing groups.

the dual cohort of aspirants

Replaces "sets of contenders" with sophisticated alternatives and highlights ambition.

FAQs

How can I use "two sets of contenders" in a sentence?

You can use "two sets of contenders" to describe situations where there are two distinct groups competing for the same prize or position. For example: "In the mayoral race, there were "two sets of contenders", each with vastly different platforms and approaches."

What are some alternatives to using "two sets of contenders"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "two groups of competitors", "two competing factions", or "two teams of challengers".

Is it grammatically correct to say "two sets of contenders"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. The phrase accurately describes two distinct groups of people or entities vying for something.

When is it most appropriate to use the phrase "two sets of contenders"?

The phrase is suitable when you want to emphasize that there are two specifically defined or organized groups competing, rather than just a general pool of individual competitors. This phrasing highlights that the competition is structured around these "two distinct groups".