few paragraphs

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "few paragraphs" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a small number of paragraphs in a text or document. Example: "Please summarize the main points in a few paragraphs."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Few paragraphs begin without it.

The New Yorker

A few paragraphs on prostitutes.

The Guardian - Books

Review the first few paragraphs above.

The Washington Post

For a few paragraphs at least.

The Guardian

Articles could be a few paragraphs shorter.

The New York Times

He was expected to write a few paragraphs.

The New York Times

But a few paragraphs later, that conceit evaporates.

The Washington Post

Permission requested to write a few paragraphs of dissent.

The Washington Post

It can't be condensed into a few paragraphs.

The Guardian

There are even a few paragraphs of style tips.

The Guardian - Books

I couldn't even type those last few paragraphs without shuddering.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "few paragraphs" when you want to indicate a small, unspecified number of paragraphs without being overly precise. It is suitable for general contexts where the exact count isn't crucial.

Common error

Avoid using "few paragraphs" when you mean there are no paragraphs at all. "Few" implies there are at least a couple, even if the number is small.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "few paragraphs" typically functions as a determiner phrase acting as an adjective, modifying a noun. It describes the quantity of paragraphs being referred to. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Science

25%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "few paragraphs" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to describe a small number of paragraphs in a text. Ludwig AI indicates its correctness and wide applicability. It's versatile across various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Science. Remember to use it when you want to indicate a small, unspecified quantity, but avoid it when referring to zero paragraphs. Consider alternatives like "several paragraphs" or "a couple of paragraphs" for slightly different nuances. Keep in mind that "few" suggests a smaller amount than "some paragraphs". By following these guidelines, you can confidently and accurately employ "few paragraphs" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

some paragraphs

A less specific quantifier indicating an unspecified number of paragraphs.

several paragraphs

Indicates a slightly larger, though still indefinite, number of paragraphs compared to "few paragraphs".

a short series of paragraphs

Emphasizes the sequential nature of the paragraphs and their limited length.

a couple of paragraphs

Specifies exactly two paragraphs, providing more precision than "few paragraphs".

a handful of paragraphs

Implies a small and easily manageable number of paragraphs, similar to "few" but with a slightly more informal tone.

a select number of paragraphs

Highlights the choice or importance of the included paragraphs.

a limited number of paragraphs

Highlights the restricted quantity of paragraphs, emphasizing the brevity of the section.

a small section of the text

Generalizes the idea to a portion of the text, not explicitly mentioning paragraphs but implying a short segment.

a brief passage

Refers to a short excerpt of writing, without specifying the structure as paragraphs.

the initial paragraphs

Refers specifically to the paragraphs at the beginning of a text.

FAQs

How do I use "few paragraphs" in a sentence?

You can use "few paragraphs" to indicate a small number of paragraphs. For example, "The author dedicates only a "few paragraphs" to the historical context."

What can I say instead of "few paragraphs"?

You can use alternatives like "several paragraphs", "a couple of paragraphs", or "a handful of paragraphs" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "few paragraphs" or specify the exact number?

It depends on the context. Use "few paragraphs" when the precise number isn't important or is unknown. If the number is known and relevant, specifying it (e.g., "two paragraphs") is more accurate.

What's the difference between "few paragraphs" and "some paragraphs"?

"Few paragraphs" suggests a smaller quantity than "some paragraphs". "Few" implies a limited amount, while "some" is more general and doesn't necessarily indicate a small quantity.