a few of things

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a few of things" is not correct in written English.
It should be "a few things" or "a few of the things" depending on the context. Example: "I have a few things to discuss with you during our meeting."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

These are just a few of things that have changed in the decade that de la Peña has been making virtual reality — who know what dimension we will head to next.

Forbes

And those are just a few of things that wouldn't come up if our son were straight.

Huffington Post

… I hope to be a very good doctor, putting into practice a few of things I observed at Michigan" (25-year-old male from KNUSTSMS).

BMC Medical Education

Below are just a few of things that great PR strategies shoot for: Favorable media coverage.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

"Only a few of our things".

The New Yorker

Here are a few of those things.

The Washington Post

There is little point in making something very small if only a few of those things are required.

Applied Nanotechnology The Conversion of Research Results to Products

Only a few of his things were left in storage at his brother's house.

The New Yorker

Minsky told me a few of the things that struck him.

The New Yorker

A few of the things on her mind when making it?

The New York Times - Arts

Here are a few of the things we have learned about undercover policing in Britain.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Always use "a few things" or "a few of the things" for correct grammar. For example, instead of saying "I need to buy a few of things", say "I need to buy a few things".

Common error

Avoid using "of" incorrectly. "Of" is needed when referring to a specific subset: "a few of the books". When referring to a general quantity, omit "of": "a few ideas".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a few of things" functions as a prepositional phrase, intending to specify a limited quantity. However, Ludwig AI indicates that it is grammatically incorrect. The correct usage depends on the context; either omitting "of" for general references or including "the" when referring to specific items.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Wiki

33%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a few of things" is generally considered grammatically incorrect in standard English. Ludwig AI suggests using "a few things" or "a few of the things" depending on whether you are referring to a general collection or a specific subset. While examples can be found across various sources like News & Media, Science, and Wiki, it is crucial to prioritize correct grammar in writing. To improve clarity and credibility, opt for alternatives like "some things" or "a couple of things". Always ensure your phrasing aligns with accepted grammatical standards to maintain professionalism and avoid misinterpretations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a couple of things

Similar meaning, but uses "couple" instead of "few".

some things

A more general way to indicate more than one item.

a handful of items

Emphasizes a small, manageable quantity.

a limited number of items

Highlights the restricted quantity.

a small number of things

More formal and emphasizes the limited quantity.

several items

Indicates more than two, but not many.

a selection of items

Focuses on the act of choosing a few from a larger set.

various matters

Replaces "things" with a more formal term.

certain aspects

Highlights specific elements or features.

a few details

Emphasizes specific pieces of information.

FAQs

What is the correct way to say "a few of things"?

The correct ways are "a few things" or "a few of the things", depending on the context. "A few things" refers to a small number of items in general, while "a few of the things" refers to a specific subset of items.

Is "a few of things" grammatically correct?

No, "a few of things" is not grammatically correct in standard English. The proper phrasing is either /s/a+few+things or "a few of the things".

When should I use "a few things" versus "a few of the things"?

"A few things" is used for a general quantity, such as, "I need "a few things" from the store." "A few of the things" is used to specify a subset: "A few of the things I need are milk and bread."

What are some alternatives to saying "a few of things"?

Alternatives include "some things", "a couple of things", or "several items", depending on the desired level of formality and specificity.