an exclusive few

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an exclusive few" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a small, select group of people who have special privileges or access to something. Example: "The event was invitation-only, allowing access to an exclusive few who were deemed worthy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Lots of people would stand in line to buy shares in Facebook, but for now, only an exclusive few - wealthy clients of Goldman Sachs - will be able to.

The New York Times

The UK subsidised theatre sector is a gift paid for by the majority but accessed by an exclusive few, so why not make more theatre for the working-class majority?

The Guardian

Given this era of unprecedented wealth for an exclusive few; the decline of real wages; astronomical higher-education costs; health care and housing woes; the obsolescence and theft of pensions; not to mention mergers, layoffs and outsourcing, it's no surprise that adults increasingly turn to alcohol, crime, drugs and risky sex to escape their woes.

The New York Times

"Historically, space has belonged to an exclusive few," the project statement explains further.

HuffPost

Climbing to the highest point on our planet is something only an exclusive few ever achieve.

Vice

The traditional brick-and-mortar gallery is actually the physical manifestation of this ethos, as only an exclusive few artists are represented, with their art typically pricing them out of the everyday buyer's budget.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Colonel McGee is one of the exclusive few to receive an invitation to Barack Obama's inauguration.

Independent

In truth, Fairburn merely represents just one of the more egregious cases in the field: plenty of chief executives assume they are members of an exclusive breed, whose few members are the only ones brilliant enough to run companies.

The Guardian - Business

WASHINGTON — Two weeks ago, senior Bush administration officials gathered in secret with Afghanistan experts from NATO and the United Nations at an exclusive Washington club a few blocks from the White House.

The New York Times

Just as Montenegro is on the verge of prosperity and recognition that could see it overrun by the masses, the Sveti Stefan is about to become an exclusive resort, affordable to few.

The Guardian - Travel

Let us keep in mind, though, that should these be imposed top-down, they will always reveal themselves to be an exclusive change, for the few and for a fleeting moment.

European Journal of Futures Research

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an exclusive few" when you want to emphasize the limited access or privilege associated with a small group of people. Ensure the context clearly indicates what makes the group exclusive.

Common error

Avoid using "an exclusive few" in casual conversation or informal writing where a simpler phrase like "a small group" would suffice. The phrase carries a sense of formality and can sound pretentious if used inappropriately.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an exclusive few" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun, denoting a small, select group distinguished by special qualities or privileges. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an exclusive few" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe a small, select group with special privileges or limited access. Ludwig confirms its correctness and applicability across various contexts. While not overly common, it finds its place in news, business, and academic writing. When using this phrase, consider the level of formality required and ensure that the context clearly defines what makes the group exclusive. Remember that alternatives like "a select group" or "a privileged minority" might be more suitable in certain situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a select group

Emphasizes the careful selection process of the group.

a small elite

Directly highlights the limited size and high status of the group.

a privileged minority

Highlights the advantages and special status enjoyed by the group.

the favored few

Suggests that the group is receiving preferential treatment.

a handful of elites

Implies a small number of powerful or influential individuals.

the chosen few

Suggests a divine or predetermined selection of individuals.

a restricted circle

Focuses on the limited access and exclusivity of the group.

an inner circle

Indicates a close-knit group with confidential information or influence.

a closed set

Highlights the limited membership and lack of openness.

a private coterie

Emphasizes the intimacy and shared interests of the group.

FAQs

How can I use "an exclusive few" in a sentence?

You can use "an exclusive few" to describe a small group with special access or privileges, for example: "The summit was attended by "an exclusive few" world leaders".

What are some alternatives to "an exclusive few"?

Alternatives include "a select group", "a privileged minority", or "the chosen few", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "an exclusive few" or "a few exclusive"?

"An exclusive few" is the more common and idiomatic phrasing. "A few exclusive" can sound awkward or less natural in most contexts.

In what contexts is "an exclusive few" most appropriate?

The phrase "an exclusive few" is most appropriate in formal or semi-formal contexts when discussing limited access, privilege, or a select group of individuals. It works well in news reports, academic papers, and business communications.