a few degrees

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a few degrees" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a small number of degrees, often in the context of temperature or angles. Example: "The temperature dropped a few degrees overnight, making it much colder in the morning."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Highland temperatures average a few degrees lower.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The CMB is a few degrees above absolute zero.

The Economist

She carried her chin a few degrees higher than most.

The New York Times - Magazine

But Rubio has tipped his hand a few degrees.

The New York Times

"If you're off a few degrees, it makes a difference".

The New York Times

"If we're within a few degrees, that's a good forecast.

The New York Times

Maybe set the heating to a few degrees warmer?

The Guardian - Tech

WHAT a difference a day and a few degrees make.

The New York Times

At nighttime, radiative cooling effect can cool the surface to a few degrees below ambient temperature.

Solar Energy Materials and Solar Cells

On changing the incidence angle by a few degrees, the deflection changes in the arcsecond range.

Nuclear Instruments and Methods in Physics Research Section A: Accelerators, Spectrometers, Detectors and Associated Equipment

This cell number can be obtained by consuming only a few degrees Plato.

Cerevisia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing temperature changes or angular deviations, use "a few degrees" to indicate a minor but potentially significant shift. Be precise when greater accuracy is required.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "a few degrees" always implies insignificance. In contexts like climate change or critical machinery, even small temperature variations can have substantial consequences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a few degrees" typically functions as an adjectival phrase modifying a noun, often indicating a small quantity or extent. Ludwig examples show its use in describing temperature changes, angular differences, or shifts in position.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

37%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a few degrees" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe minor differences, especially in temperature, angles, or position. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and provides numerous examples across diverse contexts, including News & Media and Scientific publications. While the phrase implies a small quantity, it's important not to underestimate the potential significance of even slight variations. When writing, consider alternative expressions like "a couple of degrees" or "several degrees" to fine-tune the level of precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a couple of degrees

This alternative is more specific, indicating exactly two degrees instead of an unspecified small number.

several degrees

This alternative implies a slightly larger, though still indefinite, number of degrees.

a slight difference

This alternative is broader, referring to a small difference without specifying degrees.

a minimal variation

This alternative emphasizes the smallness of the change or difference.

a marginal amount

This alternative suggests that the quantity is barely noticeable.

a small margin

This alternative focuses on the narrow range or limit involved.

a shade of difference

This alternative uses a metaphor to indicate a subtle distinction.

a touch of difference

This alternative implies a very slight and subtle change.

a whisper of change

This alternative uses figurative language to highlight the subtle nature of the alteration.

a hair's breadth

This alternative conveys that the difference is extremely small or narrow, almost imperceptible.

FAQs

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

You can use "a few degrees" to describe slight changes in temperature, angle, or position. For example, "The temperature dropped "a few degrees" overnight" or "Adjust the camera angle by "a few degrees" to improve the shot."

What are some alternatives to "a few degrees"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "a couple of degrees", "several degrees", or "a slight difference".

Is it correct to say "a few degree" instead of "a few degrees"?

No, the correct phrase is ""a few degrees"". The word "degrees" should be plural because "few" indicates more than one.

In what situations is the expression "a few degrees" most commonly used?

The expression ""a few degrees"" is commonly used when discussing temperature changes, geographical locations close to the equator, angular measurements, or even abstract concepts like slight shifts in opinion or approach.