couple of steps

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "couple of steps" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a small number of steps or actions needed to achieve something. Example: "To complete the project, there are just a couple of steps you need to follow."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

So -- another couple of steps.

The New York Times

It had dropped a couple of steps.

The New Yorker

We reached 92 weeks in a couple of steps.

The New York Times

"Here, you just take a couple of steps.

The New York Times

We took a couple of steps back tonight".

The New York Times - Sports

I followed them for a couple of steps.

The New Yorker

Now, it's like taking a couple of steps back.

The Guardian

Q. and push you back a couple of steps?

The New York Times

I tried a couple of steps, then a couple more.

The New Yorker

"Sometimes I have to take a couple of steps back.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Some days he only took a couple of steps most days, bumps and falls.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "couple of steps" to describe a short physical movement or a small number of actions needed to achieve something. It's clear, concise, and widely understood.

Common error

Avoid using "couple of steps" when describing large or complex processes. It can trivialize the effort involved. Opt for phrases like "significant progress" or "major milestones" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "couple of steps" typically functions as an adverbial phrase or a noun phrase, modifying verbs or serving as a subject or object. Ludwig AI shows numerous examples of it being used to describe physical movement or progress in a process.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "couple of steps" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase across various contexts, as confirmed by Ludwig. It typically functions as an adverbial or noun phrase, describing a short distance or a small number of actions. The phrase maintains a neutral register suitable for diverse applications. While Ludwig AI indicates its correctness, it's advisable to avoid overuse in highly formal or technical writing, where more precise language may be preferred. Remember to use it to describe a short physical movement or a small number of actions needed to achieve something.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

few steps

Replaces "couple" with "few", indicating a small quantity of steps or actions.

pair of steps

Substitutes "couple" with "pair", emphasizing the dual nature of the steps.

several paces

Uses "paces" to denote steps, adding a slightly more formal tone.

short distance

Focuses on the distance covered rather than the act of stepping.

brief walk

Emphasizes the act of walking a short distance.

limited movement

Highlights the small amount of physical movement involved.

slight advance

Implies a small step forward, often in a metaphorical sense.

small increment

Focuses on the small degree of progress made.

minor adjustment

Suggests a small change or repositioning.

just a bit

Uses an informal expression to indicate a short distance or action.

FAQs

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

You can use "couple of steps" to describe a short physical movement, as in "He took a "couple of steps" forward". Or, it can describe a small number of actions, as in "There are only a "couple of steps" left to finish the project".

What are some alternatives to "couple of steps"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "few steps", "short distance", or "several paces".

Is it always appropriate to use "couple of steps"?

While generally acceptable, "couple of steps" might be too informal for highly formal or technical writing. Consider using more precise language, such as "a limited number of actions" or "a brief movement", depending on the context.

What's the difference between "couple of steps" and "series of steps"?

"Couple of steps" implies a small, limited number, while "series of steps" suggests a more extensive and possibly complex sequence of actions.