couple shots of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "couple shots of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a small number of drinks or doses, often in a casual or informal context. Example: "After a long week, I decided to treat myself to a couple shots of espresso to boost my energy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

To deal with his own stage anxiety, he said, "I do a couple shots of bourbon before I go out there".

The New York Times - Science

"I could begin if I had a couple hours and a couple shots of whiskey," said Mr. Ritchie, 39, a Hugh Grant look-alike from England who celebrated the show's opening on Dec. 13 by skydiving from 14,000 feet.

The New York Times - Arts

"I'll need to go out and try to make a few birdies in the morning and get myself within a couple shots of the lead, or a few shots of the lead, going into the fourth round — if it ever happens," McIlroy said.

The New York Times - Sports

3 50 PM: Here's a couple shots of the CineDash thing….

TechCrunch

I did take a couple shots of the W10 since that seemed most likely to show up more sooner than later.

TechCrunch

The camera will, I'm assuming, track the motion of your little Acer Wiimote and let you "enjoy in various kinds of PC games!" Now, the English is broken and there are really only a couple shots of the thing itself, so it's probably the case that this is just a concept being pitched right now.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

"I've never had someone take more than a couple of shots," Marrion says.

Vice

When David paused to change lens I sneaked a couple of shots of the landscape with my iPhone.

The Guardian - Opinion

"I will go now and have a couple of shots of tequila," Aguirre said on television after the final whistle.

The New York Times - Sports

"We've seen people take a couple of shots" of mortgage refinancing in quick succession, said Bob Walters, the chief economist at Quicken Loans.

The New York Times

"I wanted to create a place where elegant ladies could come and not feel embarrassed about having a couple of shots of vodka," she said with determination.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Ensure the quantity and content are clear. If the type of shot is ambiguous, specify it (e.g., "couple shots of espresso", not just "couple shots of").

Common error

Avoid using "couple shots of" in formal or academic writing. Opt for more precise and professional alternatives like "two servings of" or "a measured dose of" depending on the context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "couple shots of" functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a noun by indicating quantity. It typically describes the consumption of a small amount of liquid, like alcohol or espresso. Ludwig confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Science

10%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "couple shots of" is a grammatically correct prepositional phrase that indicates a small quantity, specifically two, of a liquid. Ludwig AI confirms its usability, particularly in informal contexts like news, media, and casual conversations. While it's acceptable in many situations, it's best to avoid using it in formal or academic writing where more precise language is preferred. Alternatives include "few shots of" or "two servings of" for varied expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

few shots of

Indicates a slightly less specific quantity than "couple", implying a small number but not necessarily two.

pair of shots of

More formal synonym for "couple", emphasizing the duality of the quantity.

two servings of

Highlights the act of serving or consuming something, applicable to drinks or food.

a measure of

Refers to a specific quantity, especially in the context of alcoholic beverages.

a dose of

Implies a measured amount, often used for medicine or strong liquids.

several measures of

Highlights that a few doses are being talked about, usually alcohol.

a splash of

Indicates a small amount added, often in cooking or bartending.

a small amount of

General term referring to an undefined small portion.

a touch of

Implies a very small quantity, almost negligible.

a nip of

Informal and often refers to a small quantity of alcohol.

FAQs

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

You can use "couple shots of" to describe consuming a small amount of liquid, for example: "To deal with his stage anxiety, he said, "I do a "couple shots of" bourbon before I go out there".

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

You can use alternatives like "few shots of", "pair of shots of", or "two servings of" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "couple shots of" in a formal setting?

While grammatically correct, "couple shots of" is generally considered informal. In formal settings, use more precise language such as "a measured dose of" or "two servings of".

What is the difference between "couple shots of" and "few shots of"?

"Couple shots of" specifically implies two, while "few shots of" indicates a small, unspecified number greater than one. Use "couple" when the exact number is relevant.