Pair: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe two things of the same kind that are used together or resemble each other. Often used in more general situations.

• I bought a new pair of shoes yesterday.
• They make a great pair in the tennis court.

Commonly used to refer to two people who are romantically involved, married or in a close relationship.

• They are a lovely couple.
• The couple celebrated their anniversary last weekend.

Refers to two people who perform or operate together, especially in entertainment or work contexts.

• The comedy duo had the audience laughing all night.
• The musical duo released their new album last week.

Informally used to describe two people or things that often go together. It can also imply closeness or exclusivity, sometimes with a slightly playful or nostalgic tone.

• The inseparable twosome was always seen together.
• The twosome enjoyed a quiet day at the park.

Used when emphasizing two of the same kind, especially in the context of items or animals.

• She bought a new pair of shoes
• A pair of eagles were spotted nesting in the tree

Appropriate when talking about a group of people who come together to achieve a common objective, often in sports or work projects.

• The team worked late into the night to finish the project
• She is the captain of the soccer team

Suitable for describing a formal or business relationship where two entities work together toward common goals.

• The companies entered into a partnership to develop new technologies
• Their partnership lasted for over a decade

Best used when referring to bringing together two things or people, often implying a functional or aesthetic relationship.

• She decided to pair the red dress with black shoes.
• The teacher asked the students to pair up for the project.

Ideal for indicating that two things correspond or are similar in some aspect, frequently in a visually or functionally complementary sense.

• The colors of the curtains match the cushions perfectly.
• They tried to match the new employees with mentors to aid their development.

Suitable for situations where you are talking about mixing or joining elements to create a whole, usually with a sense of integration or merging.

• Combine flour and sugar in a bowl before adding the eggs.
• Their creative skills combined to produce an impressive artwork.