few rounds

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "few rounds" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you are referring to a small number of rounds, such as in games, competitions, or discussions. Example: "After a few rounds of discussion, we finally reached a consensus on the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

A few rounds later, he asked again.

The New York Times

Perhaps a few rounds of Danish?

The New York Times

"He's going to win a few rounds".

The New York Times - Sports

Like I'd gone a few rounds with a real heavyweight.

The New Yorker

It is just sad," Starks wrote, a few rounds later.

The New Yorker

During the first few rounds, Kellerman's comments were muted.

The New Yorker

Nobody will even notice a few rounds in.

The Guardian - Opinion

Prediction: Expect Dellacqua to ride home-crowd support through a few rounds before faltering.

The Guardian - Sport

After a few rounds of this, the lieutenant in charge of the howitzer battery said, "Enough".

The New Yorker

That won him one of the few rounds of applause of the night.

Independent

How much would Americans pay to watch Bill and Newt go a few rounds?

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "few rounds", consider the context to ensure it accurately conveys the intended quantity. It's suitable for situations where a small, indefinite number is appropriate, such as in games, discussions, or competitions.

Common error

Avoid using "few rounds" when a more precise number is known or when the quantity is significantly larger. Opt for more specific terms like "two rounds" or "several rounds" to maintain clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "few rounds" functions as a quantifier, specifying an indefinite but small number of occurrences, turns, or periods within a given activity. This is supported by Ludwig, which shows various examples in different contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "few rounds" is a common and versatile way to indicate a small, indefinite number of repetitions or intervals. As Ludwig shows, it's grammatically correct and appears across various contexts, from news and media to science and general conversation. While the phrase is generally neutral, it's crucial to consider the context to ensure the intended quantity is accurately conveyed. When greater precision is needed, alternatives like ""couple of rounds"" or "several rounds" may be more appropriate. Remember to avoid using "few rounds" when a specific number is known, maintaining clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

couple of rounds

Emphasizes a slightly smaller quantity than "few rounds".

small number of rounds

Directly emphasizes the small quantity involved.

several rounds

Indicates a slightly larger, less precise quantity than "few rounds".

some rounds

A more general term indicating an indefinite but limited quantity.

a handful of rounds

Adds a more descriptive and visual element to the quantity.

a brief series of rounds

Implies a short sequence or duration of the rounds.

limited number of rounds

Highlights the restricted quantity available or taken.

a short burst of rounds

Suggests a quick and intense sequence of activity.

a limited set of rounds

Emphasizes the defined or pre-determined number of rounds.

a restricted quantity of rounds

Highlights the constrained amount or allowance of rounds.

FAQs

How can I use "few rounds" in a sentence?

You can use "few rounds" to indicate a small number of turns, matches, or intervals within a larger event. For example, "After a "couple of rounds", the players took a break".

What can I say instead of "few rounds"?

Alternatives include "several rounds", ""couple of rounds"", or "handful of rounds", depending on the desired nuance and level of precision.

Is it appropriate to use "few rounds" in formal writing?

While generally acceptable, consider the context. In highly formal or scientific writing, more precise language might be preferable. In news or general communication, "few rounds" is perfectly acceptable.

What's the difference between "few rounds" and "many rounds"?

"Few rounds" indicates a small quantity, whereas "many rounds" suggests a large quantity. The choice depends on the actual number and the intended emphasis.