a few substances

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a few substances" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a small number of specific materials or chemicals in a context where their presence or properties are being discussed. Example: "In the experiment, we tested a few substances to determine their reaction rates under varying temperatures."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

Table 1 lists the dielectric constants of a few substances.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In addition, a few substances are known to be actively transported (secreted) into the urine.

Encyclopedia Britannica

A few substances are also secreted from the blood through the walls of the tubule into the tubular fluid.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Magnetic materials that undergo a magnetic transition will usually heat up (though a few substances will cool down) when subjected to an increasing magnetic field, and when the field is removed the opposite occurs.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Only a few substances have been taken through the SEv process to date, and so the value of this new instrument will only become clear in future.

Environmental Sciences Europe

This is not the case for cAMP antagonists, where only a few substances have been demonstrated to exhibit effects in the low micromolar range, for example, Rp-8-Br-cAMPS.

European Journal of Cell Biology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

The sex hormone ethinylestradiol is one of few substances where a significant amount of both standard and non-standard test data is available.

Environmental Sciences Europe

Very few substances have a melting point that drops under pressure--and none do this over such a huge pressure range.

Science Magazine

Armstrong wasn't regretfully injecting himself with a few banned substances to keep up with unscrupulous foreigners.

The Guardian - Opinion

Outlandish stories of anti-social behavior made them living cartoon characters powered by whisky (and a few other substances).

The Guardian - Music

A few other substances can be converted to methane by these organisms, including methanol, formic acid, acetic acid, and methylamines.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a few substances", ensure the context clearly indicates whether you're referring to a specific set known to the reader or an unspecified selection. Be specific in your wording.

Common error

Avoid using "a few substances" when a more precise term like "specific elements" or "certain compounds" would improve clarity and provide more information to the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a few substances" typically functions as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies a limited quantity of materials or compounds, as confirmed by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

57%

Encyclopedias

29%

News & Media

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a few substances" is a grammatically sound phrase used to denote a limited number of materials or compounds. Ludwig indicates that this phrase is most commonly found in scientific and encyclopedic contexts and carries a neutral formality. For clearer and more impactful writing, consider using more specific terms when appropriate. While the phrase is generally acceptable, paying attention to context and clarity will ensure your writing is both accurate and effective.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

several materials

Emphasizes a slightly larger quantity and general composition.

some compounds

Focuses specifically on chemical compounds.

a handful of chemicals

Suggests a small, manageable amount, specifically related to chemistry.

a couple of ingredients

Implies components mixed together, typically in cooking or manufacturing.

certain components

Highlights specific parts or elements within a larger system.

limited number of elements

More formal and precise, referring to chemical elements.

a select group of agents

Suggests a carefully chosen collection of active substances.

restricted range of matters

Emphasizes limitations and formality of chemical elements.

sparse number of resources

Highlights the scarcity of materials.

isolated cases of product

Focuses on the individuality and rarity of a set of products.

FAQs

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

You can use "a few substances" to refer to a limited number of materials or compounds. For example, "A few substances are also secreted from the blood through the walls of the tubule into the tubular fluid".

What is a good alternative to "a few substances"?

Depending on the context, alternatives include "several materials", "some compounds", or "certain components". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "a few substances" or "some substances"?

"A few substances" indicates a smaller, more limited number than "some substances". The choice depends on how precise you need to be about the quantity.

What is the difference between "a few substances" and "a couple of substances"?

"A couple of substances" implies exactly two, while "a few substances" suggests a small number, typically more than two but less than several.