couple of points

USAGE SUMMARY

"couple of points" is a correct phrase that can be used in written English.
You can use it when you are discussing two distinct points or ideas. For example: "I have a couple of points I'd like to make - one is that we should finish the project as soon as possible, and the other is that we should look into getting additional resources."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A couple of points.

The New York Times

A couple of points turned the match".

The New York Times - Sports

Consider a couple of points of comparison.

The New Yorker

"A couple of points though.

The Guardian - Sport

Well, a couple of points.

The Guardian

For a couple of points.

The Guardian - Sport

A couple of points decided it.

The Guardian - Sport

A couple of points in response.

The New York Times

"So, for sure, there you lose a couple of points.

Independent

Here's what it looks like: So, a couple of points.

The New York Times

But a couple of points are worth expanding.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "couple of points" to introduce a concise list of key ideas or arguments. It's effective in both formal and informal writing to signal that you're about to present a limited number of focused points.

Common error

Avoid using "couple of points" when you actually intend to discuss more than two or three points. Overusing it can mislead the reader and weaken your writing. If you have more to say, opt for a phrase like "several key aspects" or "a number of important issues."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "couple of points" functions as a quantifier followed by a noun, typically serving as an introductory phrase to enumerate or highlight a limited number of specific ideas, arguments, or considerations. Ludwig AI confirms its general grammatical correctness and utility in introducing a few salient items.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Science

29%

Formal & Business

25%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "couple of points" is a grammatically sound and widely used phrase to introduce a small number of key ideas or arguments. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is versatile enough for many writing contexts from news and media to science and business. The phrase signals to the reader that a brief, structured list is about to be presented. While highly adaptable, remember to avoid overuse and to ensure that the number of points aligns with the term "couple", typically meaning two. Alternatives like "few remarks" or "several aspects" may be more appropriate when discussing more than two items.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

few remarks

Focuses more on verbal communication, like delivering speech.

several aspects

Suggests a broader scope, focusing on different dimensions of a topic.

number of issues

Emphasizes that the points are problems or concerns.

few considerations

Indicates less formal reflections or opinions.

handful of items

Highlights that the points are discrete and countable.

some thoughts

Indicates less formal reflections or opinions.

number of items

Highlights that the points are discrete and countable.

set of considerations

Implies a more thoughtful and deliberate evaluation.

certain ideas

More abstract and less concrete than "couple of points".

several arguments

Suggests a more formal and structured presentation of ideas.

FAQs

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

You can use "couple of points" to introduce a concise list of key ideas or arguments. For example, "I have a "couple of points" I'd like to make about the new policy."

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

You can use alternatives like "few remarks", "several aspects", or "number of issues" depending on the context.

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

Yes, "couple of points" is generally acceptable in formal writing, especially when you want to introduce two or three specific items briefly. However, for highly formal contexts, consider using more precise language like "several key considerations".

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

"Couple of points" typically means exactly two points. "Few points" implies a small number, usually three or more, but not many. The choice depends on the actual number of points you're making.