a couple extra

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a couple extra" is not entirely correct in standard written English; it should be "a couple of extra." You can use it when referring to a small additional quantity of something, typically in informal contexts.
Example: "Can you bring a couple of extra chairs for the meeting?"

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

Oleksky said: "I was taking a couple extra seconds to calm it down there, and I saw Jojo streaking.

The New York Times - Sports

A. At the end of day, it may give you a couple extra points during consideration, but ultimately, a contract is awarded on merit, experience and expertise.

The New York Times

He'll break through the first tackle and get a couple extra yards every time as long as he has a head of steam.

The New York Times - Sports

In addition, many buyers will opt for the supplemental cargo cage, which attaches to the opened tailgate and adds a couple extra feet of length.

The New York Times

So your father could sell a couple extra Swivels?

TechCrunch

"They aren't doing this for a couple extra dollars.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

"For that, maybe they get an extra half bath or a couple of extra closets.

The New York Times

The additional burden consists of a couple of extra blood drops during routine blood sampling.

BMC Pediatrics

We're going to need a couple of extra barmaids.

The New York Times

– we're nudging a couple of extra pounds.

Independent

"I don't really view having a couple of extra days off as being a setback.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a couple extra", ensure the context is informal or conversational. In formal writing, consider using "a couple of additional" or "a few additional".

Common error

Avoid using "a couple extra" in formal contexts. Although widely used, it can be perceived as grammatically imprecise. Opt for alternatives such as "a couple of additional" or "a few extra" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a couple extra" functions as a determiner phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a small additional quantity. It suggests that there are two or a few more items than what is initially expected or needed. As indicated by Ludwig, it is widely used, making it acceptable in many informal contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Wiki

13%

Science

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a couple extra" is a common way to indicate a small additional quantity, although it is not considered strictly grammatically correct. Ludwig AI identifies it as acceptable in informal contexts. While prevalent in News & Media, and Wiki sources, its usage should be carefully considered in formal writing. For such situations, alternatives like "a few additional" or "a couple of additional" are preferable. Common mistakes involve using it in formal settings where a more precise tone is required. Always consider your audience and context when deciding whether to use "a couple extra".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a couple of additional

Adds 'of' between 'couple' and 'additional' to ensure grammatical correctness.

a couple more

Simplifies the phrase to its most basic equivalent.

a few additional

Replaces "couple" with "few" and "extra" with "additional" for a more formal tone.

two extra

Replaces the indefinite article "a couple" with a number to be precise.

a pair of surplus

Uses "pair" instead of "couple" and "surplus" instead of "extra", altering the wording while keeping the meaning intact.

a couple supplementary

Employs "supplementary" to convey the idea of a small addition.

some supplementary

Employs "some" and "supplementary" to convey the idea of a small addition.

a handful of extra

Substitutes "couple" with "handful", implying a slightly larger, but still small, quantity.

a small number of extra

Replaces "couple" with "small number", making it a more descriptive alternative.

a limited number of additional

Emphasizes the limited quantity using 'limited' and 'additional'.

FAQs

Is "a couple extra" grammatically correct?

While commonly used, the phrase "a couple extra" is not strictly grammatically correct. "A couple of extra" is more precise. However, Ludwig AI shows that "a couple extra" is acceptable in many informal contexts.

What's a more formal way to say "a couple extra"?

You can use phrases like "a few additional" or "a couple of additional" for a more formal tone.

When is it appropriate to use "a couple extra"?

It is appropriate to use "a couple extra" in informal settings, conversations, or casual writing. For formal writing, choose a more grammatically precise alternative.

Are there any alternatives to "a couple extra" that maintain the same level of informality?

Yes, alternatives like "a couple more" or "a few extra" offer a similar level of informality.