couple of numbers

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "couple of numbers" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to two or a few specific numbers in a casual or informal context. Example: "I need a couple of numbers to complete the calculations for the report."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

33 human-written examples

A couple of numbers in the wrong place.

Independent

We called a couple of numbers, passing ourselves off as potential buyers.

The Guardian

"Well this is a chipper song," announces Gillian Welch, a couple of numbers into her set.

The Guardian - Music

She settles a couple of numbers inwhensheskittishly removes her shoes, grinning with relief and skipping girlishly across the stage.

Independent

So rather than a couple of numbers guiding my future career prospects, it'll be work experience and determination.

The Guardian

As far as cabaret goes, I was asked by the Melbourne cabaret festival to MC and perform a couple of numbers at their closing gala in 2013.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

By the time they broke into the U.S. markets, The Beatles had a couple of number one singles as well as a number one album.

Huffington Post

Bring your ID, a couple of Number 2 pencils, proof of registration, and a calculator to the testing site.

WikiHow

They are wonderfully showcased in a couple of fantasy numbers that are the highlights of each act, and are choreographed with invention by Warren Carlyle.

The New York Times

A couple of Fievel numbers on the "American Tail" soundtracks.

The New Yorker

The score manages a couple of stirring numbers, chiefly the yearning ballad Seventeen.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "couple of numbers" when you want to indicate a small, indefinite quantity (usually two or three) without being too precise. It's suitable for informal and general contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "couple of numbers" in formal or technical writing where precise quantities are important. Opt for more specific terms like "two numbers" or "a few numbers" to maintain clarity and professionalism.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "couple of numbers" functions as a quantifier followed by a plural noun. It indicates a small, indefinite quantity of numerical values. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "couple of numbers" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to indicate a small quantity of numerical values. While Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, it's important to note that its use is best suited for informal and general contexts. In more formal or technical writing, consider using precise quantities. The phrase appears frequently in "News & Media", "Wiki", and "Science" sources, indicating its broad applicability. When precision is key, alternatives like "a pair of numbers" or specifying the exact quantity are more appropriate. Using "couple of numbers" effectively involves understanding its informal nature and choosing contexts where approximation is acceptable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a few numbers

Emphasizes a small, indefinite quantity of numbers.

several numbers

Suggests a slightly larger quantity than "a few numbers", but still not many.

a pair of numbers

Specifically refers to exactly two numbers.

two or three numbers

Indicates an approximate quantity, either two or three.

a small set of numbers

More formal and emphasizes that the numbers are part of a group.

limited number of values

Focuses on the restriction of the quantity of numeric values.

handful of digits

More informal and implies that the quantity is small enough to be held in one's hand.

short list of figures

Implies some organization in the data.

some numerical data

Refers to numerical information without specifying quantity.

a selection of numbers

Suggests that the numbers have been chosen from a larger set.

FAQs

How can I use "couple of numbers" in a sentence?

You can use "couple of numbers" to refer to a small, indefinite quantity of numbers, like: "I need a couple of numbers to finish this calculation."

What can I say instead of "couple of numbers"?

You can use alternatives like "a few numbers", "several numbers", or "a pair of numbers" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "couple of numbers" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "couple of numbers" is generally better suited for informal contexts. In formal writing, consider using more precise alternatives like "two numbers" or "a specific set of values."

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

"Couple of numbers" implies approximately two or a few, while "pair of numbers" strictly means two. The choice depends on the level of precision required.