a few angels

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a few angels" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a small number of angels in a context, whether literal or metaphorical. Example: "In the painting, there are a few angels hovering above the scene, adding a sense of serenity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

So do a few angels.

The New York Times - Books

The next round of capital came from winning prizes for business plans and a few angels in the form of investors.

The New York Times

A few angels bit, but Thomas still had a long way to go.

Forbes

Currently, Chumkee is boot-strapped with support from a few angels.

TechCrunch

Also participating in the funding was Collina Ventures and a few angels.

TechCrunch

To date, LASTMILE has raised seed capital from Techstars and a few angels.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

When their money runs out, you tap a few angel investors old rich guys with too much time on their hands.

Forbes

After quitting their day jobs in fall 2006, Lore and Bharara snagged $4 million in venture funding from BEV Capital, MentorTech Ventures and a few angel investors.

Forbes

While Sarver has made a few angel investments (BlackJet and SmartThings), this will be his first formal investment role.

TechCrunch

Given Skype's success, he then made a few angel investments in Tweetdeck, Betaworks, Teleportd and more.

TechCrunch

They started doing a few angel investments together after they sold Grouper to Sony and left the company.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a few angels" metaphorically, ensure the context clearly conveys the intended meaning of guidance, protection, or benevolence.

Common error

Avoid using "a few angels" when referring to a significant number of such entities; it suggests a small, limited quantity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a few angels" functions as a noun phrase, where "a few" acts as a determiner quantifying the noun "angels". As shown in Ludwig, it describes a limited quantity of entities, often with connotations of benevolence or protection.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Wiki

13%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a few angels" is a grammatically sound noun phrase used to denote a small number of benevolent or protective entities. As supported by Ludwig, it appears most frequently in news and media contexts, often referring to early-stage investors or supportive figures. The phrase maintains a generally neutral register, and its usage aligns with standard English grammar. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its common use and acceptability in diverse contexts, ranging from business to spirituality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A couple of guardian angels

More specific in number and role, suggesting two protectors.

Some benevolent spirits

Focuses on the kindness and goodwill associated with the spirits.

Several guardian spirits

Emphasizes the protective aspect more strongly than the original phrase.

A handful of celestial beings

Uses a more formal and poetic tone, referring to beings of the sky.

A small group of divine messengers

Highlights the role of angels as communicators of divine will.

A sparse number of angelic figures

Indicates a limited quantity with an emphasis on their angelic nature.

A select few heavenly protectors

Highlights the chosen nature and protective function.

Just a few seraphim

Replaces 'angels' with a more specific term (seraphim), implying a higher rank of angel.

Limited number of celestial guardians

Emphasizes scarcity and protection from the heavens.

A sprinkle of divine presences

Uses metaphorical language to convey the idea of scattered angelic influence.

FAQs

How can I use "a few angels" in a sentence?

You can use "a few angels" to describe a small number of benevolent or protective figures. For example, "The startup received support from "a few angels" in the investment community".

What's the difference between "a few angels" and "many angels"?

"A few angels" suggests a small, limited number, while "many angels" implies a larger, more substantial quantity. The choice depends on the specific number and the context you want to convey.

Are there alternative phrases to "a few angels" that I can use?

Yes, you can use alternatives like "several guardian spirits", "some benevolent spirits", or "a couple of guardian angels" depending on the nuance you want to express.

In what contexts is "a few angels" typically used?

The phrase "a few angels" is commonly used in contexts involving spirituality, investment, or describing benevolent influences. For instance, it can refer to investors who provide early-stage funding or to individuals offering guidance and support.