a couple dates

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a couple dates" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to two or a few specific dates, often in the context of scheduling or planning. Example: "I have a couple dates in mind for our meeting next week."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

I'd join OkCupid and go on a couple dates, making notes of funny or interesting stories to build upon later.

Huffington Post

I explained that I had been on a couple dates and that there were a couple of interested parties but that I had fallen off the wagon again.

Huffington Post

She's been on a couple dates with the adorable Latin teacher Jamie (B.J. Novak), And despite his too-close-for-comfort relationship with his best friend Lucy, Mindy has high hopes for their budding relationship.

Huffington Post

Chances are that if he likes you and you've gone on a couple dates, he'll try to kiss you.

WikiHow

An e-mail can be a great opportunity to explain how you're feeling after a first date, or after a couple dates, if you're the shy type.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

I can think of few people in show business who enjoy greater audience good will than Steve Carell and Tina Fey, yet their début vehicle as a screen couple, "Date Night," is a clunky and obvious comedy, well beneath their talents.

The New Yorker

The clerk may give you a choice of possible court dates, so look at a calendar before you call and pick out a couple of dates that would work well for you.

WikiHow

"I'll admit I've gotten a couple of dates out of it," he said.

The New York Times

He asked for her number, and over the next two weeks, they had a couple of dates.

The New York Times - Style

After a couple of dates, Ms. Jaffe suggested that they just be friends.

The New York Times - Style

They hope to do a couple of dates in London in the summer.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To avoid ambiguity in formal writing, replace "a couple dates" with more specific alternatives like "two dates" or "a few occasions".

Common error

Avoid using "a couple dates" in contexts where clarity is crucial, as it can be misinterpreted. Instead, opt for more precise terms like "two scheduled meetings" or "a few planned outings" to ensure your meaning is accurately conveyed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a couple dates" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as an object or complement within a sentence. It denotes a small number of instances, usually two, referring to specific points in time set aside for an event or activity, as showcased by Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Reference

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a couple dates" is a grammatically correct and usable English phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig. It's most frequently encountered in News & Media and Wiki contexts, indicating a neutral to informal register. While Ludwig provides limited exact examples, the phrase generally refers to two specific instances of dating or scheduled engagements. Alternatives like "two dates" or "a few dates" may offer greater precision in certain contexts. When using "a couple dates", be mindful of potential ambiguity and consider whether a more specific term would enhance clarity. The phrase is commonly understood and accepted, making it a versatile option for everyday communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

two dates

Specifies the exact number of dates, offering a more precise alternative.

a pair of dates

Emphasizes the duality or pairing of the dates, similar to "a couple".

a few dates

Indicates a small, indefinite number of dates, similar in meaning but less specific.

a small number of dates

A more descriptive and less concise way of saying "a couple dates".

several dates

Suggests more than just two dates, implying a slightly longer period or more occurrences.

a handful of dates

Indicates a small number of dates that can be counted easily.

a couple of rendezvous

Replaces "dates" with a more formal synonym, changing the tone slightly.

some dates

Offers a less specific quantity, suitable when the exact number is not important.

a couple of meetings

If the 'dates' are professional, this provides a context-specific alternative.

two occasions

Replaces both the number and 'dates' with more generic wording.

FAQs

How can I use "a couple dates" in a sentence?

You can use "a couple dates" to refer to a few instances of going out with someone romantically, as in "We went on "a couple dates" before deciding we were better off as friends", or to refer to a few specific days, as in "We have "a couple dates" penciled in for the conference".

What's a more formal alternative to "a couple dates"?

In formal contexts, you might prefer "two scheduled meetings", "a few planned engagements", or "several appointments" instead of ""a couple dates"".

Is it correct to say "a couple of dates" instead of "a couple dates"?

Yes, "a couple of dates" is also grammatically correct and very common. The inclusion of "of" doesn't significantly change the meaning, but it might sound slightly more formal or descriptive than ""a couple dates"".

When should I use "a couple dates" vs "a few dates"?

"A couple dates" specifically implies two dates. "A few dates" suggests more than two, but still a small, indefinite number. Choose based on the actual number you're referring to. If it's precisely two, use ""a couple dates""; otherwise, "a few dates" may be more appropriate.