a few specimens

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a few specimens" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a small number of examples or samples of something, often in a scientific or research context. Example: "In our study, we collected a few specimens of the rare plant species for analysis."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

He believes it probably does – the grubs they harvest are so energy-rich and full of fat that just a few specimens can satisfy their daily needs.

The Guardian

Now, a few specimens are incorporated into bigger-picture exhibits.

The New York Times - Health

A few specimens are so new they have yet to be given formal scientific names.

The New York Times - Arts

Only a few specimens represent the meagre beginning of the dinosaurian reign.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He plunged his hand into a silo and pulled up a few specimens for examination.

The New York Times - Food

There are even transsexual cycads -- a few specimens have been documented to change gender under environmental stress.

The New York Times - Magazine

They were evolving rapidly at the start of the Jurassic period, but are only known from a few specimens worldwide.

Independent

We visited Jekka McVicar's herb farm in the spring and brought a few specimens home to see how they do in the garden.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

He collected a few specimens and studied them in a laboratory, along with his colleague, Gregory Sutton, a researcher at the University of Bristol in England.

The New York Times - Science

Much more unusual is the appearance of a few specimens of Yuan date that are painted with reduced copper red under the glaze.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Neopalpa neonata occupies a range from California to northern Mexico, but what it does there is unclear, since the moth isn't well studied and just a few specimens exist in museum collections, including one recovered from a tomato plant.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a few specimens" when you want to indicate a small number of items or examples that are representative of a larger group, particularly in scientific or research contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "a few specimens" in casual conversations or informal writing where simpler alternatives like "a few examples" or "some items" would be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a few specimens" functions as a determiner phrase modifying a noun. Ludwig confirms its correct usage, typically indicating a limited quantity of specific items collected or preserved for examination or display.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

57%

News & Media

29%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

7%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a few specimens" is grammatically sound and commonly used, as affirmed by Ludwig. It serves to indicate a small number of items or examples, especially within scientific or formal contexts. While it is appropriate for technical writing, Ludwig suggests that simpler alternatives might be more suitable for casual conversation. The phrase appears frequently in science, news, encyclopedias, and wiki sources, highlighting its relevance in documentation, research, and educational materials. When writing, remember that context dictates the choice of wording, so understanding both the technical accuracy and stylistic nuances is crucial for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

several samples

This alternative emphasizes the act of taking samples from a larger group.

a handful of examples

This suggests a small, manageable number of examples.

a small selection

This highlights the act of choosing a limited group.

limited number of samples

This emphasizes both the restricted quantity and the sampling aspect.

a couple of instances

This is a more informal way to indicate a small number of occurrences.

a limited quantity of items

This focuses on the restricted amount of physical objects.

a scattering of examples

This suggests the examples are sparsely distributed.

a sparse assortment

This highlights a limited and varied collection.

a trace amount of substance

This indicates a very small, almost negligible quantity of a particular material.

restricted collection of objects

This emphasizes that the objects are part of a specific and small group.

FAQs

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

You can use "a few specimens" to refer to a small number of examples taken for study or display, as in "The museum displayed "a few specimens" of ancient pottery".

What's the difference between "a few specimens" and "a few samples"?

While similar, "a few specimens" often implies a more formal or scientific context, referring to items preserved or collected for study. "A few samples" is more general and can refer to portions taken from a larger quantity.

What are some alternatives to "a few specimens"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "several samples", "a handful of examples", or "a small selection".

Is it appropriate to use "a few specimens" in everyday conversation?

While grammatically correct, "a few specimens" is more commonly used in formal or scientific contexts. In everyday conversation, simpler phrases like "a few examples" or "some items" might sound more natural.