a few picked

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a few picked" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a small number of selected items or individuals from a larger group. Example: "After reviewing all the applicants, we have a few picked who stand out for the position."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

(Most listed new books, but a few picked older favorites).

The New Yorker

(Most listed new books, but a few picked older favorites or ones that will come out in the new year).

The New Yorker

In an interview in December, Petrus said the demands of being an offensive lineman in the N.F.L. had reduced his music playing to little more than a few picked chords here and there before heading to bed.

The New York Times

The recordings, made in three days, were stark solo tracks with a handful of overdubs; they often used only a few picked guitar notes tolling behind her voice, as she sang troubled, at times suicidal thoughts.

The New York Times - Arts

Serves two 2 oranges 1 tbsp orange blossom water 1 tsp dark brown sugar 2 tbsp pomegranate seeds A few picked mint leaves Take the oranges and use a small sharp knife to trim off their tops and tails.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I'm being selective with these responses to the prospect of Richard Keys and Andy Gray facing disciplinary action over their comments about referee's assistant Sian Massey – a few picked out of hundreds that generally agree that the Sky duo's standpoint is distasteful, even if they disagree with the calls to have them sacked.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Typically, by this point, it's not difficult to hone in on at least a few picks.

The Washington Post

Mr. Adair has little experience of an umpire's perspective, having umpired only a few pick-up games.

The New York Times

How much better will we get by drafting a quarterback, or how much better will you get by getting a few picks later on?

The New York Times

Our table shows a few picks from Maureen Cullinane, plus some from our own screens.

Forbes

Speaking of cell phones, here are a few picks from each major that I think will cover the basics, like making calls and getting e-mails.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a few picked", ensure the context clearly indicates the selection process. For instance, specify the criteria or source from which the items were picked.

Common error

Avoid using "a few picked" when referring to a large, undefined quantity. This phrase implies a deliberate selection, so ensure the number is truly limited and intentional.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a few picked" functions as a determiner and past participle construction, modifying a noun (implicit or explicit) to indicate a small, selected subset. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a few picked" is a grammatically correct way to indicate a small number of items or individuals that have been deliberately chosen or selected. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is deemed correct and usable in written English. Its use is more common in news and general writing contexts, implying a discerning selection process. When employing this phrase, ensure the context clearly reflects a deliberate selection and that the quantity is indeed limited. Alternatives such as "a small selection" or "several chosen" can provide similar meanings while adjusting the nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a small selection

Emphasizes the limited number and deliberate choice involved.

several chosen

Highlights the act of choosing and that multiple items were selected.

a select few

Indicates exclusivity and careful selection from a larger group.

some designated

Focuses on the act of assigning or designating a small number.

a handful elected

Suggests a small group chosen through a formal process or election.

limited picks

Highlights the constraint on the number of choices available.

certain selected ones

Underscores that specific items have been chosen with intention.

a minority favored

Implies that a small segment has been preferred over others.

restricted choices

Highlights that a reduced amount of options are picked up.

a sparse number preferred

Emphasizes the scarcity and preference in the selection.

FAQs

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

Use "a few picked" to indicate a small number of items or individuals that have been selected from a larger group. For example, "From all the applicants, "a few picked" stood out because of their experience".

What can I say instead of "a few picked"?

You can use alternatives like "a small selection", "several chosen", or "a select few" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "a few picked"?

Yes, "a few picked" is grammatically correct and can be used to describe a small number of items or individuals that have been chosen or selected from a larger group.

When is it appropriate to use "a few picked" instead of "some" or "several"?

"A few picked" is appropriate when you want to emphasize the selection process. Unlike "some" or "several", it implies a deliberate act of choosing. You may otherwise consider those alternative phrases for general small quantities.