a few computer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a few computer" is not correct in written English.
It should be "a few computers" when referring to multiple devices. Example: "In the lab, we have a few computers available for students to use."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

With the exception of a few computer labs maintained by individual colleges, OIT is responsible for most of the computing facilities on campus.

Wikipedia

He can print out his family pedigree with the tap of a few computer keys.

The New York Times

Let's grab our shopping lists and a few computer scientists and get started.

The New York Times

There are even a few computer sound cards that include a tube or two.

The New York Times - Tech

I still figured there must be a few computer repair technicians available somewhere in Bali who could help me out.

The New York Times

It was enough to cover their biggest expense — leasing a few computer servers at $120 a month each.

The New York Times - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

19 human-written examples

After Mr. Wang graduated from Queens College with a mathematics degree and worked at a few computer-programming jobs, Mr. Wang and three friends in 1976 launched what would become Computer Associates.

The New York Times

There are a few computer-generated effects -- half-translucent, ghostly figures passing through walls, for instance -- but the Pang brothers' preferred special effect is the camera itself, with its limited point of view, its mobility and, most of all, that innocent-looking focus ring attached to the lens.

The New York Times

Five years ago Eurasia consisted of one man, Ian Bremmer, a few computers, and a letterhead.

The Economist

A small trading operation with just a few computers and flat-screen TVs runs about $100,000.

The New York Times

Now what, since Apple only lets me authorize a few computers?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Always use the plural form "computers" when referring to multiple computer devices, as the quantifier "a few" indicates more than one.

Common error

Avoid using the singular "computer" with quantifiers like "a few", "several", or "some". Always ensure the noun agrees in number with the quantifier.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a few computer" is grammatically incorrect. The determiner "a few" indicates a plural quantity, but it is followed by the singular noun "computer". Ludwig AI confirms that the plural form, "a few computers", is the correct usage.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

Science

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News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a few computer" is grammatically incorrect and should be avoided. The correct usage is ""a few computers"", ensuring plural agreement. As Ludwig AI indicates, the error lies in using the singular form "computer" when "a few" necessitates a plural noun. Remember to use the plural form "computers" when referring to multiple devices to maintain grammatical accuracy and clarity. Alternative phrases like "several computers" or "a couple of computers" are also suitable depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a few computers

Corrects the grammatical error by using the plural form of "computer" to agree with "a few".

several computers

Replaces "a few" with "several" to provide a slightly different quantifier while maintaining the plural form of "computer".

a couple of computers

Uses "a couple" instead of "a few" for a more specific quantity, ensuring correct pluralization of "computer".

some computers

Employs "some" as a general quantifier, still necessitating the plural "computers".

a handful of computers

Offers a more descriptive quantifier, replacing "a few" with "a handful of" while maintaining grammatical accuracy.

a small number of computers

Provides a more formal alternative using "a small number of", still requiring the plural "computers".

a limited number of computers

Similar to the previous, but emphasizes a restriction in quantity.

a few desktop computers

Specifies the type of computers, adding "desktop" for clarity and maintaining plural agreement.

a few laptop computers

Similar to 'a few desktop computers', but referring to laptops.

a limited set of computers

Replaces the quantifier with a description of limited amount and making sure it refers to computers in plural form.

FAQs

Why is it incorrect to say "a few computer"?

The phrase "a few computer" is grammatically incorrect because "a few" indicates a plural quantity, requiring the noun to be in its plural form. The correct phrase is "a few computers".

What are some alternatives to saying "a few computer"?

Instead of "a few computer", you can say "a couple of computers", "several computers", or "some computers". Remember to always use the plural form when referring to more than one.

Which is correct, "a few computer" or "a few computers"?

"A few computers" is the correct phrase. The word "few" implies more than one, so the noun must be plural.

How do I use the phrase "a few computers" in a sentence?

You can use the phrase ""a few computers"" in sentences like: "The lab has a few computers available for student use." or "We need a few computers for the new employees."