few shots

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "few shots" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a small number of photographs, attempts, or instances of something, often in a casual or informal context. Example: "After a few shots, I finally captured the perfect moment at the event."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Take a few shots".

The New Yorker

We heard a few shots.

The New York Times

Few shots came from flat lies.

The New York Times - Sports

Clive had taken a few shots.

The New Yorker

"I've taken a few shots".

The New York Times - Sports

Nonetheless, he took a few shots.

The New York Times

I'm sure he'll get a few shots".

The Guardian - Sport

Everything was dark, save for a few shots of fuchsia.

The New York Times

A few shots hadn't even hit the paper.

The New York Times - Magazine

I went home Sunday and hit a few shots.

Independent

He took a few shots in the dusk.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "few shots" to describe a photographic session, consider specifying the subject or focus of the shots to provide more context, like "few shots of the sunset".

Common error

Avoid using "few shots" when a more precise number can be provided. Saying "three shots" is more informative than "a few shots" if the exact quantity is known.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "few shots" functions as a determiner phrase modifying a noun. It indicates a small, limited number of attempts, instances, or photographs. As Ludwig highlights, the phrase is grammatically sound and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "few shots" is a versatile and commonly used phrase that indicates a small quantity of something. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across various contexts. It is most frequently found in news and media, but also appears in wikis and other general writing. When using "few shots", ensure that the context is clear and that a more precise number isn't necessary for better clarity. Remember, according to Ludwig's analysis, while both "few" and "a few" are acceptable, they carry slightly different implications regarding the quantity being described.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a couple of shots

Uses a more specific quantifier than "few".

several attempts

Focuses on the aspect of trying or attempting something.

a handful of tries

Emphasizes a small number of efforts.

limited photographs

Specifically refers to a restricted quantity of photos.

a smattering of attempts

Implies a small, scattered number of tries.

some tries

A more general term indicating some attempts were made

a limited number of efforts

Emphasizes the restriction on the number of attempts.

minimal number of photographs

Highlights the scarcity of photographs taken.

scant attempts

Suggests that the attempts were not only few but also insufficient.

isolated instances

Focuses on the infrequency and separation of occurrences.

FAQs

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

You can use "few shots" to refer to a small number of attempts, photographs, or instances of something. For example, "He only needed a "few shots" to win the game" or "I took a "few shots" of the scenery".

What can I say instead of "few shots"?

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

Which is correct, "few shots" or "a few shots"?

Both ""few shots"" and "a few shots" are grammatically correct, but they have slightly different meanings. "Few" emphasizes the smallness of the quantity, while "a few" suggests that while the quantity is small, it is still present or sufficient.

What's the difference between "few shots" and "several shots"?

"Few shots" indicates a smaller number than "several shots". "Few" implies a limited or possibly insufficient amount, while "several" suggests more than two but not many.