a few awkward

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a few awkward" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a small number of situations or moments that are uncomfortable or clumsy. Example: "During the meeting, there were a few awkward silences that made everyone feel uneasy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A few awkward unicorns don't hurt either.

The Guardian

There were also more than a few awkward pauses.

The New York Times

Then buckle in for a few awkward breakfasts.

The New York Times

But there were also a few awkward moments.

The New York Times

After a few awkward pauses, there's the inevitable smooch.

The New York Times

There have been hugs and even a few awkward kisses.

The Guardian - Travel

Still, the week has had a few awkward moments.

The New York Times

After I made a few awkward efforts, my cast flew over the rope onto the sidewalk.

The New York Times - Sports

Suddenly she is a doll, a talking doll, who can speak only a few awkward words.

The New York Times - Books

After a few awkward minutes, he suggested we meet somewhere on the Upper West Side.

The New York Times - Magazine

Henry Hynoski tried to beg off, then gamely wiggled his fists and swayed his hips for a few awkward seconds.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a few awkward", ensure that the context clearly indicates what is causing the awkwardness. This helps the reader understand the specific nature of the situation.

Common error

Avoid using "a few awkward" when the situation is genuinely serious or highly distressing. The phrase tends to downplay the severity, so reserve it for minor social mishaps or mildly uncomfortable situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a few awkward" functions as a quantifier followed by an adjective, modifying an implied noun (like moments, situations, etc.). As Ludwig AI explains, it describes a limited number of instances that are uncomfortable or clumsy.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Academia

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a few awkward" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe a small number of uncomfortable or clumsy moments. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is suitable for various contexts, particularly in news and media, and academia. While versatile, it's important to consider the degree of discomfort the phrase suggests, avoiding it in cases of severe distress. Alternatives like "some uneasy" or "several clumsy" may be more appropriate depending on the specific nuance you aim to convey. Overall, "a few awkward" is a useful and widely understood way to describe mildly uncomfortable situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

some uneasy

Focuses more on the feeling of unease rather than the clumsiness of the situation.

several uncomfortable

Emphasizes the discomfort associated with the situation, similar to "awkward".

a couple of clumsy

Highlights the lack of grace or smoothness in the situation or action.

a handful of embarrassing

Shifts the focus to the potential for shame or humiliation.

a number of difficult

Indicates challenges or problems, rather than social discomfort.

a sprinkling of tense

Suggests a slight presence of tension or strain.

some ungainly

Focuses on the lack of physical grace or coordination.

a touch of strained

Emphasizes the artificial or forced nature of the situation.

a bit unnerving

Highlights the anxiety-inducing quality of the situations.

several delicate

Suggests situations requiring careful handling to avoid problems.

FAQs

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

You can use "a few awkward" to describe moments or situations that are slightly uncomfortable or clumsy. For example, "There were "a few awkward silences" during the meeting" or "He made "a few awkward attempts" to start a conversation".

What are some alternatives to "a few awkward"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "some uncomfortable", "several clumsy", or "a couple of embarrassing".

Is it correct to say "a few awkward moments"?

Yes, "a few awkward moments" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to describe a small number of uncomfortable or uneasy situations. The Ludwig AI confirms this.

What's the difference between "a few awkward" and "some awkward"?

"A few awkward" implies a smaller, more specific number of instances, while "some awkward" is more general and suggests an unspecified quantity. The choice depends on the level of detail you want to convey.