a few names

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a few names" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to refer to a small number of names. For example: "I can give you a few names of people who could help you with this project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He rattles off a few names.

The New York Times

For him, that sum includes a few names everyone knows.

Harvard University

First of all, a few names are mentioned.

The New Yorker

Here are just a few names to get you started.

Independent

Cohen even recommended a few names, including Husted.

The New York Times - Sports

There have been a few names out there mentioned.

Independent

The public-address announcer fumbled a few names.

The New York Times - Sports

After a pause you might elicit a few names.

The New York Times

They've added a few names to help that happen.

The Guardian - Sport

Memorize a few names and faces before class and gently call on them during class.

Yale University

MR. COUNSELLOR SMIRNOV: I will mention a few names of German military employees.

Yale University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In formal writing, consider whether a more precise term like "several individuals" or "a limited number of candidates" might be more appropriate.

Common error

Don't underestimate the importance of those "a few names". Even a small number of key people can have a significant impact. Ensure you give them appropriate consideration.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a few names" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as the object of a verb or preposition. It signifies a limited quantity of individuals or entities that are being identified or considered. Ludwig examples show how it is used to suggest some people in general, and Ludwig AI confirms this is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Academia

15%

Science

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a few names" is a common and grammatically correct way to refer to a small number of people, entities, or items. As Ludwig AI confirms, this expression is suitable for various contexts, particularly in news, academic, and scientific writing. While versatile, consider using more formal alternatives like "several individuals" for enhanced precision in formal settings. Best practices involve ensuring clarity in context, and avoiding underestimation of this ""a few names"" in terms of significance. Overall, "a few names" provides a flexible means of designating a select group within a broader scope.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a small list of names

Directly specifies a written or recorded compilation.

a handful of people

Implies a small, manageable group of people.

several individuals

Emphasizes the distinctness of each person rather than just a list.

certain individuals

Implies a degree of specificity or knowledge about the people.

a select group

Suggests a carefully chosen or exclusive assembly.

a couple of candidates

Specifically refers to potential choices or nominees.

a short roster

Used when referring to a team or organization's list.

some figures

Suitable when referring to well-known or important people.

a limited number of persons

More formal and emphasizes restriction.

a sprinkling of identities

Figurative; suggests names are dispersed or not prominent.

FAQs

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

You can use "a few names" to refer to a small number of people, such as "I can give you "a few names" of potential candidates for the job".

What's a more formal way to say "a few names"?

In more formal contexts, you can use phrases like "several individuals" or "a limited number of persons" instead of ""a few names"".

Is it appropriate to use "a few names" in academic writing?

While acceptable, consider alternatives such as "several researchers" or "a select group of experts" for greater precision and formality compared to ""a few names"".

What does "a few names" imply about the number of people or entities?

"A few names" suggests a small number, typically more than two but less than ten. It's less precise than specifying an exact number but implies a manageable quantity.