a couple of things

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a couple of things" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a small quantity of things, usually two or sometimes three. For example: I need to do a couple of things before I go to bed.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A couple of things.

The New York Times

So we do a couple of things.

The New York Times

I missed a couple of things".

The New York Times

"He changed a couple of things".

The New York Times

So I did a couple of things.

The New York Times

I go through a couple of things.

The New Yorker

A couple of things gave me pause.

The New York Times

So we found a couple of things.

The New York Times

This suggests a couple of things.

The New York Times

I learned a couple of things.

The New York Times

Then a couple of things happened.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When listing the "couple of things", ensure they are related or connected in some way to maintain coherence.

Common error

While "a couple of things" is acceptable, avoid using it excessively in a single piece of writing. Vary your language by using more specific terms like "two points", "several aspects", or "a few items" to improve clarity and readability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a couple of things" functions as a determiner phrase, introducing a limited quantity of items or points. It sets the expectation that the speaker will elaborate on a small number of subjects. Ludwig examples show it in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

30%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a couple of things" is a versatile phrase used to introduce a small number of items or points. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage. While generally meaning two, it can sometimes imply three. For clarity and variety, consider alternatives like "a few items" or "several points". To enhance your writing, avoid overusing this phrase and be mindful of the context to ensure accurate and engaging communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a few items

Replaces "couple" with "few", indicating a small quantity, but potentially slightly more than two.

several points

Substitutes "things" with "points", emphasizing specific ideas or arguments.

several factors

Similar to "several points" but emphasizing contributing causes or elements.

a handful of items

Uses "handful" to suggest a small, manageable quantity.

a limited number of items

Emphasizes that the quantity is not large.

some details

Highlights some more specific information.

some aspects

Focuses on particular elements or facets being considered.

certain matters

Replaces "things" with a more formal "matters".

a pair of issues

More specific, implies exactly two distinct problems or topics.

two considerations

Highlights that the items are thoughts or factors to keep in mind.

FAQs

How can I use "a couple of things" in a sentence?

You can use "a couple of things" to introduce a short list of items or points, for example, "I need to buy "a couple of things" at the grocery store: milk and bread."

What can I say instead of "a couple of things"?

You can use alternatives like "a few items", "several points", or "some aspects" depending on the context.

Is it correct to use "a couple of things" when referring to more than two items?

While "a couple" generally means two, "a couple of things" is often used informally to mean a small number, possibly up to three. For more than three, it's better to use "several items" or "a few things".

What's the difference between "a couple of things" and "a pair of things"?

"A pair of things" implies exactly two items that are related or matched, while "a couple of things" can refer to two or a small number of unrelated items. For example, "a pair of shoes" versus ""a couple of things" I need to do today".