a few quid

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a few quid" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in informal contexts to refer to a small amount of money, particularly in British English. Example: "I only have a few quid left in my wallet after shopping."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Got a few quid?

The Guardian

They all made a few quid".

The Guardian - Sport

It's a few quid, I'll tell you.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"I'll give you a few quid for them," he said.

The Guardian - Film

These were Hofners we bought for a few quid.

The Guardian - Music

Time to put a few quid on 0-0?

The Guardian - Sport

("Got to make a few quid," he said).

The New Yorker

He's obviously delighted with his call-up, even though it's cost him a few quid".

Independent

"It was a few quid and at the time people would question it," Carrick reflects now.

Independent

At drawpilgrim.com you can, for a few quid, download and print some old-style illustrative covers.

Independent

It's the most precious commodity you could buy, and it costs just a few quid.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a few quid" when you want to convey a sense of informality and are addressing an audience familiar with British English. It's particularly effective in anecdotal or conversational contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "a few quid" in formal writing or professional communications. Opt for more neutral phrases like "a small amount of money" or "a modest sum" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a few quid" functions as a determiner phrase acting as an adjective, modifying a noun. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is used to specify an indefinite but small quantity of money. The word "quid" here means "pounds" and refers to the British currency.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

96%

Science

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Social Media

0%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a few quid" is a British English idiom denoting a small amount of money. As Ludwig AI highlights, the phrase is grammatically sound and commonly used, particularly in informal settings. While prevalent in news and media, it's advisable to avoid using it in formal contexts. Related phrases include "a small sum of money" and "a couple of pounds", providing more formal or specific alternatives. When writing, remember that this expression adds a touch of British colloquialism and informality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a couple of pounds

This is another British English phrase that refers to a specific amount of money.

a little money

This is a simpler and more direct alternative.

a small sum of money

This is a more formal and general way to describe a small amount of money.

a few dollars

This alternative changes the currency to US dollars.

a modest amount of money

This alternative emphasizes the unassuming size of the quantity.

a bit of cash

This alternative uses the word "cash", implying physical currency.

some pocket money

This phrase suggests a small allowance or spending money.

a handful of change

This phrase is more specific, suggesting the money is in coins.

a token amount

This suggests the money is symbolic rather than substantial.

a small fortune

This alternative is ironical and indicates the opposite meaning, so the degree of interchangeability is very low.

FAQs

What does "a few quid" mean?

"A few quid" is a British English expression that means a small amount of money. The word "quid" is a slang term for pounds, the UK currency.

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

You might say, "I only need "a few quid" to buy a coffee" or "He made "a few quid" selling his old books".

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

You can use alternatives like "a small sum of money", "a bit of cash", or "a couple of pounds" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "a few quid" in formal writing?

No, it's generally not appropriate. "A few quid" is an informal expression, so it's best to use more formal alternatives like "a small amount of money" in formal writing.