a few computers

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a few computers" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a small number of computers, typically more than one but not many. Example: "In the lab, we have a few computers available for students to use during their study hours."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

43 human-written examples

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

The New York Times

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

The Economist

Assassination and cyber-weapons have wiped out a few scientists and scrambled a few computers.

The Guardian - Opinion

Social Flight Simulator: Made out of wood, Google Earth, Multimap and a few computers.

The Guardian

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

The New York Times

The business center is essentially a counter with a few computers along one wall in the lobby.

The New York Times - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 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

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

The New York Times - Tech

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

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

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the scale of a tech setup, pair "a few computers" with details about their specific roles or configurations to give the reader a clearer picture. For instance, "a few computers dedicated to data analysis".

Common error

Avoid implying significant computational power or extensive resources when describing a setup with "a few computers". Be realistic about what can be achieved with a limited number of machines.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a few computers" functions as a determiner + noun phrase. It indicates a quantity of computers that is more than one, but not a large number. As Ludwig AI states, this phrase is both correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

16%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a few computers" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to indicate a small, indefinite number of computers. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s suitable for various contexts, including news reports, scientific articles, and general discussions. While alternatives like "several computers" or "a handful of computers" exist, the best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Remember to avoid overstating capabilities when describing setups using "a few computers", and always provide context for clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

several computers

Emphasizes more than just a minimal number of computers, suggesting a slightly larger quantity.

a small number of computers

More formal and explicitly states that the quantity of computers is not large.

a handful of computers

Implies a small, manageable number of computers, easily counted or handled.

a couple of computers

Refers to exactly two computers, providing a more precise quantity than "a few".

some computers

A more general term indicating an unspecified but limited number of computers.

a limited number of workstations

Using "workstations" instead of "computers" implies a professional or work-related context.

limited computers

Highlights the restriction on the number of computers available.

a restricted set of computers

Emphasizes the limited and controlled availability of computers.

a small collection of computers

Suggests a curated or intentionally grouped set of computers, more formal.

a few machines

Broader term, "machines", replacing "computers" while maintaining the sense of a small quantity.

FAQs

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

You can use "a few computers" to describe a small number of computers being used for a specific purpose. For example, "The lab has "a few computers" dedicated to running simulations".

What phrases are similar in meaning to "a few computers"?

Similar phrases include "several computers", "a handful of computers", or "some computers", all indicating a small number of computers.

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

Both "a few computers" and "several computers" are correct, but "several" suggests a slightly larger quantity than "a few". The choice depends on the specific number you wish to convey.

Can I use "a few computers" in formal writing?

Yes, "a few computers" is appropriate for both formal and informal writing. It is a clear and concise way to indicate a small number of computers without being overly technical.