what a combination

USAGE SUMMARY

"what a combination" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to express surprise or admiration at the combination of things or people. Example: "What a combination of talent and hard work she possesses! No wonder she was promoted to CEO at such a young age."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

"What a combination!

The New Yorker

"Excess and terrible taste -- what a combination," she muttered.

The New York Times

What a combination of radical thought and global adventuring might have followed.

The Guardian - Opinion

To see why it is so, keep in mind what a combination of community rating, guaranteed issue and a mandate to be insured seeks to achieve.

The New York Times

What a combination: the knobbly leanness of a high jumper, the distracted glare of a chess freak, and the long-necked sorrow of a vulture that doesn't know where its next dead zebra is coming from.

The New Yorker

What a combination, when you think of it - Inge, whose work ("Picnic," "Splendor in the Grass," "Come Back, Little Sheba") was so much about longing, and Marilyn Monroe, who was longing personified!

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

He examined this provision focusing on what a "business combination" meant and found that the sale of stock here could be a business combination or something "similar".

The New York Times

What a cool combination?!

The Guardian

What a fabulous combination to look forward to!

The Guardian

But she added: "I would have liked to see a trial because it would have educated the public in a comprehensive way about what a lethal combination that tire and the Explorer are.

The New York Times

What a great combination your talents and ideas would make!

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "what a combination" to express surprise or admiration when disparate elements come together in an unexpected or pleasing way. For example, "What a combination of flavors! The sweet and spicy notes complement each other perfectly."

Common error

While "what a combination" is acceptable in many contexts, avoid using it in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more sophisticated phrasing to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "what a combination" functions as an exclamation, expressing surprise or admiration about a particular mix of elements. As Ludwig AI explains, it is used to express surprise or admiration at the combination of things or people.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

77%

Science

8%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "what a combination" is a versatile phrase used to express surprise or admiration when noticing an interesting or unexpected mix of elements. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While generally neutral in register and commonly found in News & Media contexts, it may be less suitable for highly formal or academic writing. Consider alternatives like "remarkable synergy" or "unique fusion" to suit the specific tone and context of your writing. Be mindful of the potential for overuse and strive for more precise and sophisticated phrasing when appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

remarkable synergy

Focuses on the interaction and cooperative effect of the combined elements, rather than just their co-existence.

excellent mix

Simple and straightforward, emphasizing a positive outcome from the mixture.

impressive blend

Highlights the smoothness and seamlessness of the integration of the elements.

ideal pairing

Indicates that the combination is perfectly suited or harmonious.

wonderful match

Emphasizes the compatibility and pleasing nature of the combination.

uncommon pairing

Emphasizes the unusual or unexpected nature of the combination.

unique fusion

Stresses the creation of something new and distinct from the combination.

striking juxtaposition

Highlights the contrast or unexpectedness of placing elements side by side.

notable convergence

Highlights that elements come together from different directions/origins.

fortunate alliance

Suggests that the combination is beneficial or advantageous.

FAQs

How can I use "what a combination" in a sentence?

You can use "what a combination" to express surprise or admiration when two or more things are put together. For example, "What a combination of skill and luck led to their victory!"

What are some alternatives to saying "what a combination"?

Alternatives include phrases like "remarkable synergy", "excellent mix", or "unique fusion", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "what a combination" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "what a combination" is generally more suited for informal or conversational contexts. In formal writing, consider using more sophisticated phrases to maintain a professional tone.

What does "what a combination" typically imply?

The phrase "what a combination" usually implies surprise, admiration, or recognition of the interesting or notable way in which different elements have been brought together.