quite a few

USAGE SUMMARY

"quite a few" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to mean more than a few but less than a lot. For example, "There were quite a few people at the party."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Yes, quite a few.

The New Yorker

Oh yes, quite a few.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

We have quite a few.

The Guardian

Quite a few people, actually.

The New York Times

Quite a few concerned Matisse.

The Economist

Quite a few I'd say.

The New York Times - Magazine

Quite a few write.

The Guardian

"Quite a few failed.

The Guardian

Well, quite a few.

The Guardian

(Quite a few, apparently).

The New York Times - Arts

Quite a few times.

The Guardian - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "quite a few" when you want to indicate a quantity that is more than just a few but less than a lot. It strikes a balance between understatement and exaggeration.

Common error

While "quite a few" is acceptable in many contexts, avoid it when exact numbers or precise quantities are important. Opt for specific figures or more precise quantifiers like "several" or "a number of" when accuracy is required.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "quite a few" functions as a determiner, specifically a quantifier. It modifies a noun to indicate an indefinite but noticeable quantity. Ludwig examples show it quantifying people, things, and events across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

77%

Academia

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "quite a few" is a determiner phrase used to express a quantity greater than a few but less than a lot. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability. While generally neutral in register, it's most frequently found in news and media contexts. When precision is crucial, consider using more specific quantifiers. For similar expressions, "several" or "a number of" can be used, depending on the level of formality and the intended meaning. The phrase strikes a balance between understatement and exaggeration.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

several

Conveys a similar meaning of 'more than two or three but not many', offering a more concise alternative.

a number of

A more formal and general way of expressing 'quite a few', suitable for various contexts.

a good few

Similar in meaning, this alternative emphasizes the 'good' or positive aspect of the quantity.

not a small number

Emphasizes the quantity by negating its smallness, implying it is a considerable amount.

a fair amount of

Implies a reasonable or considerable quantity, often used with uncountable nouns.

a decent number of

Suggests that the quantity is acceptable or satisfactory.

numerous

A more formal term indicating a large number, though can sometimes imply a larger quantity than "quite a few".

various

Implies that there are multiple items or instances, without specifying an exact quantity.

a considerable quantity of

Emphasizes that there is a significant amount, often used in more formal or technical contexts.

plenty of

Implies an abundance or more than enough, suggesting a larger quantity than "quite a few".

FAQs

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

You can use "quite a few" to indicate a moderate quantity. For example, "I know "quite a few" people who enjoy hiking".

What's a less common way to say "quite a few"?

Consider using phrases like "a good few" or "a number of" to express a similar meaning while varying your language.

Is "quite a few" formal or informal?

"Quite a few" leans towards the informal side but is generally acceptable in most contexts. For a more formal tone, consider using "several" or "numerous".

What's the difference between "quite a few" and "a lot of"?

"Quite a few" suggests a moderate quantity, while "a lot of" indicates a larger quantity. Choose the phrase that best represents the actual amount you're describing.