a few glides

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a few glides" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts related to movement, sound, or transitions, often in artistic or technical discussions. Example: "The dancer incorporated a few glides into her routine, adding elegance to her performance."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Within a few glides, however, they discovered the pilot could remain prone on the wing, headfirst, without undue danger when landing.

Wikipedia

Do a few glides, then bring your skates together, crouch, and jump a short distance.

WikiHow

Do a few glides to gain momentum, then lift the toe of your stronger skating foot so that you're skating only on the heel, with the other foot trailing directly behind.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Others ate pizza as they walked, while a few glided along on in-line skates.

The New York Times

A few tourists glide about the church, whispering now and again.

The New Yorker

Reflections from the lights of the gray-shingled rental cottages on the piers winked in the dark water as a few boats glided into the bay for moonlight cruises.

The New York Times - Magazine

But inside a branch of Laiki Bank, one of Cyprus's two dominant banks, a few silhouettes glided about Monday, filling cash machines to calm a wave of anxiety that has washed over this tiny island since European leaders took the unprecedented step Saturday of trying to force depositors to pay for part of an international bailout.

The New York Times

A few horses glide over gracefully.

Vice

Some lucky few glided in and out of the work force with grace and managed their time at home with enthusiasm.

The New York Times

I watch a few experienced boulderers glide across it like spiders.

The New York Times - Health

Some do what they always do, others are wrong-footed by the changing contexts and a few blessed souls glide between the different challenges they face Here is a group of players: Chris Rogers, Ian Bell, Michael Clarke, Alastair Cook, David Warner.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing movements, consider using "a few glides" to indicate a controlled, short sequence of smooth motions. This is particularly effective in technical writing or descriptive narratives where precision is key.

Common error

Avoid using "a few glides" when the context requires a more dynamic or extended action. Ensure the brevity and smoothness implied by the phrase align with the intended meaning to prevent misinterpretation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a few glides" typically functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb or preposition to describe a limited number of smooth movements. Ludwig examples showcase usage in contexts like skating or aviation.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Wiki

30%

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Academia

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a few glides" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to describe a small number of smooth, continuous movements. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is used in various contexts, particularly in descriptions of physical activities like skating or aviation. While it is generally neutral in register, its effectiveness lies in its precision and conciseness. Ludwig's examples, as well as the related phrases and writing guidance, provide a comprehensive understanding of how to use this phrase accurately and effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

several glides

Emphasizes a slightly larger number of glides than "a few".

some glides

A more general term, less specific about the number of glides.

a couple of glides

Specifies the number of glides as two.

a small number of glides

Formal and emphasizes the limited quantity.

a handful of glides

Suggests a small, easily managed number of glides.

a brief series of glides

Focuses on the short duration of the gliding motion.

a short sequence of glides

Highlights that the glides occur in a connected order.

a touch of gliding

Emphasizes the lightness and brevity of the gliding.

limited gliding

Highlights restriction in the amount of gliding motion.

a minimal glide

Emphasizes reduction to the smallest degree in gliding motion.

FAQs

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

You can use "a few glides" to describe a brief series of smooth movements, such as "The skater performed "a few glides" across the ice before attempting a jump."

What are some alternatives to using "a few glides"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "several glides", "some glides", or "a couple of glides".

Is "a few glides" grammatically correct?

Yes, "a few glides" is grammatically correct and commonly used to describe a small number of smooth, gliding movements.

What is the difference between "a few glides" and "some glides"?

"A few glides" implies a more specific, smaller number than "some glides", which is a more general term for an unspecified amount.