couple of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "couple of" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to two or a few items or people, often in a casual or informal context. Example: "I have a couple of ideas for our project that I would like to share."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"A couple of crazies.

The New Yorker

A couple of days?

Independent

A couple of monologues.

The New Yorker

A couple of things.

The New York Times

38% A couple of weeks.

Forbes

A couple of points.

The New York Times

A couple of hours?

The New York Times - Food

A couple of murders.

The New Yorker

A couple of hundred?

The New York Times - Arts

A couple of pointers.

The New York Times

"Couple of virgins.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "couple of", ensure the context makes it clear whether you mean exactly two or a small number (around two or three). Avoid ambiguity by being more specific if precision is needed.

Common error

Avoid using "couple of" with singular nouns. Always follow it with a plural noun. For example, use "couple of ideas" instead of "couple of idea".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "couple of" functions as a determiner, specifically a quantifier, indicating a small quantity. Ludwig AI confirms it is grammatically correct and frequently used. It modifies a plural noun to specify that there are approximately two of something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "couple of" is a versatile quantifier used to indicate a small quantity, typically around two. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely used, especially in news and media contexts. While generally acceptable, more formal settings may benefit from more precise alternatives such as "pair of" or "few". Remember to follow "couple of" with a plural noun and be mindful of the context to avoid ambiguity. The phrase's frequency underscores its usefulness in everyday language.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pair of

Indicates exactly two items, more precise than "couple of" which can sometimes imply a few.

two or three

More explicit about the quantity than "couple of".

few

Suggests more than two but still a small, indefinite number.

small number of

More formal and emphasizes the limited quantity.

handful of

Implies a quantity that can be held in one hand, suggesting a small amount.

several

Indicates more than a few, but still not a large quantity.

duo of

Specifically refers to a pair, often used for people working together.

set of

Implies a collection of two or more items meant to be used together.

brace of

An archaic term for a pair, typically used in hunting contexts.

some

A general term indicating an unspecified quantity, can be less specific than "couple of".

FAQs

How do I use "couple of" in a sentence?

Use "couple of" followed by a plural noun to indicate two or a few items. For example, "I need a "couple of days" to finish the project" or "I have a "couple of questions" for you".

What can I say instead of "couple of"?

You can use alternatives like "pair of" if you mean exactly two, or "few" or "small number of" if you mean a small but indefinite quantity.

Is it acceptable to use "couple of" in formal writing?

While "couple of" is widely understood, it's generally considered more informal. In formal writing, consider using more precise alternatives like "two" or "a small number of" to maintain a professional tone.

What's the difference between "couple of" and "pair of"?

"Pair of" specifically means two, whereas "couple of" can sometimes mean approximately two or a small number close to two. Therefore, "pair of" is more precise when you want to indicate exactly two items.