couple of spots

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "couple of spots" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a small number of locations or areas, often in a casual or informal context. Example: "I found a couple of spots in the park that are perfect for a picnic."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"At a couple of spots," he said, "I was reaching for notes that weren't there".

The New York Times

"He might make up a couple of spots in the standings, who knows?" Kahne said.

The New York Times - Sports

"In terms of movement, maybe a couple of spots up, maybe a couple spots down.

The New York Times - Sports

She's written her own memoir, which is quoted in a couple of spots in the piece.

The New Yorker

"That might only happen in a couple of spots that are theoretically difficult to grab with a camera," Korfiatis said.

The New York Times - Sports

Q: Why not move up a couple of spots to ensure you get the player you want?

The New York Times

In a couple of spots on this album ASAP Rocky moves beyond these concerns altogether, opting for something postnarrative.

The New York Times - Arts

"You hope to get a good opening and a couple of spots, and you pray something happens.

The New York Times - Books

The police had to close entrance and exit ramps at a couple of spots along Lake Shore Drive.

The New York Times

I have a fair idea who's going to stay but there's a couple of spots were looking at".

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Republicans do have a couple of bright spots — especially Susana Martinez of New Mexico and Bob McDonnell of Virginia — who remain quite popular and should have a long political future.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "couple of spots" when referring to a small number of locations or areas casually. For example, "I know a couple of spots where we can get good coffee."

Common error

Avoid using "couple of spots" in formal or academic writing. Opt for more precise and professional alternatives like "few locations" or "specific areas" to maintain a more elevated tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "couple of spots" functions primarily as a determiner phrase, specifying a small quantity of locations or areas. As Ludwig AI confirms, the expression is grammatically sound. This makes it suitable for modifying nouns and indicating a limited number of places.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Science

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "couple of spots" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to indicate a small number of locations or areas. As Ludwig AI confirms, the expression is suitable for everyday conversation and news reporting. While versatile, it is generally more appropriate for neutral to informal contexts. For formal writing, alternatives such as "few locations" or "specific areas" may be preferable. The phrase appears frequently in news media, with less common usage in more academic or scientific contexts. When using "couple of spots", consider the context and the desired level of formality to ensure clarity and appropriateness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a couple of places

A more generic alternative, suitable for various contexts where specific locations are referenced.

few locations

Emphasizes a small number of distinct places, often geographically defined.

handful of locations

Suggests a slightly larger quantity than "couple", implying a few more places.

certain locations

Highlights the definiteness or selection of particular places.

small number of sites

Implies a formal or designated location, like construction or event sites.

several points

Refers to specific instances or moments, rather than physical locations.

some specific areas

Emphasizes particular regions or zones, rather than individual locations.

limited number of areas

Highlights that the number is restricted, emphasizing the scarcity of locations.

just a few instances

Shifts focus from locations to occurrences or examples.

a brace of positions

A more formal or archaic alternative, suitable for official or literary contexts.

FAQs

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

You can use "couple of spots" to refer to a small number of places. For example: "I know a "couple of spots" where we can eat."

What are some alternatives to "couple of spots"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "few locations", "a couple of places", or "several points" instead of "couple of spots".

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

While grammatically correct, "couple of spots" is more suitable for informal contexts. In formal writing, consider using more precise terms like "specific areas" or "certain locations".

What does "couple of spots" mean?

"Couple of spots" simply refers to a small number (two or a few) of distinct locations or areas.