WordGarden.iocombination
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /kˌɒmbɪnˈeɪʃən/
US
- /ˌkɑmbəˈneɪʃən/
Meanings
Noun
a mix, set, or arrangement of two or more things used or considered together
the act or process of joining things so they work together
a sequence of numbers or symbols used to open a lock or gain access
More meaningsFewer meanings
a selection of items from a larger set, especially when order does not matter
a coordinated series of moves, plays, or punches
Beyond the definition
A combination is the act of bringing things together to create something new—like ingredients in a recipe, colors in a painting, or letters in a password! It can also refer to the result of that mixing. Think about your favorite ice cream flavor; it is a delicious combination of milk, sugar, and whatever yummy bits are mixed in. Sometimes, a combination is simply an arrangement—like the number sequence for a lock.
You might combine efforts with a friend on a project, or discover a surprising combination of flavors at a restaurant. A winning sports team is often described as having a strong combination of skill and teamwork. Be careful, though! Some combinations just don't work—oil and water, for example, are an unstable combination.
The word "combination" refers to the act or result of combining two or more things. It's about bringing elements together to form a unified whole, whether physical, abstract, or conceptual. For instance, a chef might create a unique flavor combination by pairing unexpected ingredients like chocolate and chili peppers.
But the concept of combination isn't limited to tangible items. You can talk about a "combination of factors" that led to a particular outcome—perhaps a lucky streak combined with hard work results in success. It also describes arrangements, as in the combination to unlock a safe or the color combinations used in interior design.
In mathematics and science, "combination" has a specific meaning related to selecting items from a group without regard to order (as opposed to "permutation," which does consider order). This is often seen in probability calculations. For example, how many different combinations of three toppings can you choose for your pizza?
The word carries a sense of intention; it's not just about things being together randomly. A combination suggests a deliberate blending or arrangement to achieve a specific purpose or effect. So whether you're mixing paint colors, solving a puzzle, or analyzing complex events, "combination" highlights the power of bringing different elements together.
Examples
- 1
Colors
Blue and yellow are a cheerful combination.
- 2
Team qualities
The team has a good combination of experience and energy.
- 3
Multiple causes
A combination of bad weather and roadwork slowed the trip.
- 4
Buying choice
We finally found the right combination of price and quality.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Medical treatment
The drug is often used in combination with other treatments.
- Patternin combination with + thing
together with it
- 6
Personal strengths
Her patience and sense of humor are a winning combination.
- 7
Lock code
I forgot the combination to my locker.
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
- separation
- single element
Do not confuse
Used with (collocations)
- a combination of
- winning combination
- in combination with
- combination of factors
Word family
Explore
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- combinationnoun
Forms
- combinationspluralnoun