a few talks

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a few talks" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a small number of discussions or presentations on a particular topic. Example: "We had a few talks about the new project during the meeting last week."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

I attended a few talks".

The New Yorker

There were also a few talks on Talmud and one on God.

The Economist

We've had a few talks since we've been on the ward.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I've already given a few talks and there was a man there with a notebook".

The Guardian - Books

Please note a few talks are unavailable due to technical difficulties experienced with the AV equipment during the event.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

A news brief summarizes a few talks on the same general topic or issues at a given symposium.

Yale University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

The next morning Mr. Ozawa appears on KITV with a few talking points.

The New York Times - Arts

Usually I wing it when I speak publicly, and I use just a few talking points.

The New York Times

Here are a few talking points to help with your verdict.

The Guardian - Film

Below are a few talking points about Hagel's appointment as secretary of defense.

The Guardian - Opinion

A few talked about the treatment family members had received at Shock Trauma in the past.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a few talks", ensure the context clearly indicates the topic and purpose of the talks. This helps avoid ambiguity and provides a clearer understanding for the audience.

Common error

Avoid using "a few talks" when the number of talks is substantial or the impact is significant. This phrase implies a limited number and can downplay the importance of the discussions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a few talks" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It refers to a limited number of presentations or discussions. This is validated by Ludwig, which confirms the phrase's correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

40%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a few talks" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a small number of presentations or discussions. Ludwig's analysis of various sources reveals that it is frequently used in news, academic, and scientific contexts, with a neutral register. While the phrase is generally acceptable, it's important to consider the specific context and audience, and to avoid overstating the significance when only "a few talks" are involved. Understanding these nuances ensures effective communication and appropriate usage in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

several discussions

Emphasizes a slightly larger number of discussions.

some presentations

Focuses on the presentation aspect rather than general discussions.

a handful of speeches

Highlights the formal nature of the talks as speeches.

a couple of lectures

Specifies the talks as lectures, implying a more academic setting.

limited engagements

Refers to a restricted number of speaking opportunities.

brief presentations

Indicates short or concise talks.

occasional discussions

Suggests talks that happen from time to time, not regularly.

periodic addresses

Highlights scheduled, formal talks.

certain symposiums

Focuses on talks within a symposium context.

selective colloquiums

Implies chosen or specific academic talks.

FAQs

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

You can use "a few talks" to describe a small number of presentations or discussions on a topic, such as "The conference included "a few talks" on climate change".

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

You can use alternatives like "several discussions", "some presentations", or "a handful of speeches" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "a few talks" or "few talks"?

"A few talks" implies a small but positive number, whereas "few talks" suggests a scarcity or near absence of talks.

What's the difference between "a few talks" and "a couple of talks"?

"A couple of talks" generally means exactly two, while "a few talks" implies a small number greater than two, typically around three or four.