Search results
Apr 12, 2022 · How many is a couple? In its strictest sense, the phrase a couple means two. It is commonly followed by of, as in I have a couple of errands to run or They made a couple of mistakes. Sometimes, it’s used without of, which is considered even more informal, as in a couple miles or a couple books.
Couple is used to refer to two things, but is also often used for a small number greater than two. Few is used the same way as couple and also for a number slightly greater than a couple. Several is usually used for a number greater than a couple and a few.
Jul 20, 2014 · If someone says they have a couple of problems, it usually doesn’t mean just two – they probably have 3 or 4, and they are using the word ‘couple’ to downplay it a bit. If you have a couple of friends over for dinner, it may be 2, but it may be 3 (with covid, you’re downplaying that one, too.)
Nov 30, 2022 · How Many Is “A Couple”? Historically, couple (from the Latin copula, meaning “bond”) has been a noun with a strict meaning of “two.” Think of a married couple, which usually includes only two people. Even the OED defines couple as “that which unites two.” It basically means “a pair.”
Mar 28, 2024 · Understanding the difference between couple, few, some, several, and many can be tricky but it’s key to mastering English. A couple means two, usually not more or less. When we say a few, think of a small number, roughly around three to four.
Oct 14, 2022 · Couple: In the strictest sense, a ‘couple’ refers to two people or objects, but it is sometimes used to describe a small number that is greater than two. Few: A ‘few’ is typically understood to mean a number between two and several, with some people using it to describe three people or objects.
a couple of, more than two, but not many, of; a small number of; a few: Also Informal, a couple. It will take a couple of days for the package to get there. A dinner party, whether for a couple of old friends or eight new acquaintances, takes nearly the same amount of effort.
