ample courses

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ample courses" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a variety of options or a generous amount of courses, often in the context of education or dining. Example: "The university offers ample courses in various fields, allowing students to explore their interests."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

There is also a daily tapas menu, $55 per couple, featuring 10 ample courses plus dessert.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

The ample main courses are $8 to $16.

The New York Times - Travel

From a broad price range, a more than ample three-course dinner averages $32 without drinks, tax and tip.

The New York Times

This policy of benign neglect allowed ample time between courses, say, half an hour or so, ensuring plenty of time to soak in the atmosphere, which is the real selling point at Isle of Capri.

The New York Times - Food

Between seasons, of course, ample storage space is critical.

The New York Times

The first-time event will include films, talks, exhibitions, music with space themes and, of course, ample sun, moon and star gazing; it is timed to coincide with World Space Week.

The New York Times

And there, in a nutshell, is the Yankees' formula for September success: a walk, a steal, a bunt, a base hit, a home run and, of course, ample good pitching.

The New York Times - Sports

There is of course ample reason for young musicians to spend quality time with Mozart, and the orchestra's zesty, alert performances left a listener with the impression that these players were happy for the opportunity.

The New York Times

It does all the things a travelogue does best: records the scenery, recalls near brushes with wonder and disaster, leaving ample time, of course, for deep and meaningful introspection.

The New York Times - Arts

The four acres of hills and trees on which the home sits offer natural serenity, abundant exploration,and, of course, ample privacy.

Forbes

With all the press it's getting, Lady Gaga's latest video offering ("Telephone") hardly needs elaboration here: Naked girl-on-girl-in-prison soft porn sprinkled with violence, a mass murder fantasy and, of course, ample product placement.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a menu, use "ample courses" to indicate a satisfying and generous selection of dishes. For example, "The tasting menu features ample courses to showcase the chef's expertise."

Common error

Avoid using "ample courses" when you mean a small or limited selection. "Ample" suggests a generous or more-than-sufficient amount.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ample courses" functions as a descriptive phrase, where "ample" modifies the noun "courses". According to Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct. It describes a situation with a substantial or more-than-sufficient number of courses, whether in a meal or curriculum.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "ample courses" is a grammatically correct and semantically sound expression used to describe a generous quantity of courses. While its frequency is relatively rare, according to Ludwig, it is versatile enough for use in various contexts, primarily within News & Media and Scientific domains. To ensure clarity, use "ample courses" to denote abundance and avoid its use when referring to small quantities. Consider alternatives like "plentiful courses" or "sufficient courses" for similar meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sufficient courses

Indicates a number of courses that meet the necessary requirements.

plentiful courses

Suggests a large and generous quantity of courses.

abundant courses

Emphasizes the richness and profusion of available courses.

generous courses

Highlights the large size or quantity of the courses offered, often referring to food.

extensive courses

Focuses on the wide-ranging and comprehensive nature of the courses.

numerous courses

Simply states that there are many courses available.

adequate courses

Implies the courses are satisfactory or acceptable for a particular purpose.

copious courses

Indicates a very large quantity of courses, perhaps more than needed.

substantial courses

Highlights the solid or significant nature of the courses, either in content or quantity.

full courses

Suggests the courses are complete and comprehensive.

FAQs

How can I use "ample courses" in a sentence?

You can say, "The restaurant offers a tapas menu with "ample courses" plus dessert" or "The curriculum provides students with "ample courses" to choose from."

What's a good alternative to "ample courses"?

Consider using alternatives like "plentiful courses", "sufficient courses", or "abundant courses" depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is "ample courses" suitable for formal writing?

Yes, "ample courses" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when describing menus or academic offerings. It conveys a sense of generosity and comprehensiveness.

Which is correct, "ample courses" or "ample course"?

"Ample courses" (plural) is used when referring to multiple courses or options. "Ample course" (singular) would only be correct if referring to one specific course that is substantial or comprehensive.