C1noun5K

Duo

UK /["/ˈdjuːəʊ/"]/US /["/ˈduːəʊ/"]/

Definition

two people who perform together or are often seen or thought of together

In simple words: A group of two people or things.

Examples

  • the comedy duo Laurel and Hardy
  • the goal-scoring duo of Coates and Winterbotham

Usage notes

Used when referring to two individuals working or performing together. Common in music, sports, and various partnerships. Not typically used for larger groups.

Grammar pattern

duo + noun (e.g., duo of musicians)

Memory hint

Think 'due' to two people working together.

Collocations

  • musical duo
  • dynamic duo
  • duo act
  • partner duo
  • comedy duo

Synonyms

  • pair
  • couple
  • twosome
  • duet
  • double

Antonyms

  • solo
  • individual
  • singleton

Common mistakes

  • Incorrectly using 'duo' for groups larger than two.
  • Confusing 'duo' with 'duet' which specifically refers to a musical performance.