a few applications

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a few applications" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a small number of applications, typically in contexts such as technology, software, or job applications. Example: "After reviewing the job postings, I decided to submit a few applications to companies that align with my career goals."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A few applications are given to demonstrate their usefulness.

Reliability Engineering & System Safety

A few applications of the method are also discussed.

Computer Physics Communications

U3 technology allows you to bring both your data and a few applications with you.

The Guardian

(Facebook does have a few applications of this sort, but it hasn't been the focus).

The New York Times

These competitions involve a lot more than just reading a few applications".

The New York Times

* You need to process thousands or millions of jobs, using only a few applications.

University of California, Berkeley

A gradient one-dimensional bar sample in tension is considered for a few applications of the proposed theory.

International Journal of Solids and Structures

You can start small, test out a few applications and then, once you're ready, tackle some of the bigger IT decisions.

The Guardian

He ordered a coffee, sat down, opened up a cheap laptop and launched a few applications: a text editor, an app for encrypted chat, and a browser.

The Guardian

As big data techniques stabilise into a few applications where it works well and long, more of the surveillance business model will blow away.

The Guardian

If you use just a few applications repeatedly, the easiest place to put them is in the center of the Programs list.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use “a few applications” when you want to indicate a limited but non-negligible number of uses or instances, typically more than two but less than several.

Common error

Avoid using "a few applications" when the actual number of applications is substantial. If there are many applications, consider using terms like "various applications" or "numerous applications" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a few applications" functions as a determiner phrase followed by a plural noun. It modifies a noun to indicate a limited quantity. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

38%

News & Media

31%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a few applications" is grammatically sound and widely used, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It serves to indicate a limited number of uses or instances across a range of contexts, including science, news media, and business. While versatile, it's crucial to ensure the quantity aligns with the real number to maintain accuracy. Alternatives like "several uses" or "limited number of uses" may be more appropriate depending on the emphasis desired. Whether discussing software capabilities, job submissions, or scientific theories, "a few applications" offers a concise way to convey a restricted yet significant scope.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

several uses

Emphasizes the multiplicity of uses, rather than their limited number.

some implementations

Focuses on the act of putting something into effect, suitable for technical contexts.

a couple of instances

Highlights specific cases where the applications are observed or utilized.

limited number of uses

Stresses the scarcity of applications, useful when highlighting restrictions.

various examples

Indicates that there are different kinds of applications, showing diversity.

handful of cases

Implies a small and easily managed number of instances.

certain utilizations

Highlights specific ways in which something is used, often in a technical or formal setting.

select number of employments

Suggests the applications are carefully chosen or specific.

small set of functions

Refers to a limited group of operations or actions that can be performed.

restricted scope of service

Emphasizes that the possible uses are intentionally limited in their extent or range.

FAQs

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

You can use "a few applications" to indicate a small number of uses or instances, such as "The software has "a few applications" in data analysis and visualization".

What's a good alternative to "a few applications"?

Depending on the context, alternatives include "several uses", "some implementations", or "a limited number of uses".

Is it better to say "a few applications" or "several applications"?

The choice depends on the degree of emphasis. "A few applications" suggests a smaller number than "several applications". Choose the one that better reflects the actual number you're describing.

When should I use "a few applications" instead of "some applications"?

"A few applications" implies a smaller quantity and more defined scope compared to "some applications", which is more general. Use "a few" when the number is limited and known.