several cookies

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "several cookies" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to an unspecified number of cookies that is more than two but not many, typically in a context where the exact quantity is not important. Example: "I baked several cookies for the party, and they were a big hit."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Unless your browser's security settings are particularly high – and most users' aren't – the Guardian will have placed several cookies on your computer as you arrived at this article, and its advertisers will have placed a few of their own.

The Guardian - Tech

Several cookies are smart: They already don't need wheat.

Los Angeles Times

For the verse where Yankovic mumbles the lyrics to the song, he placed several cookies in his mouth to achieve the garbled effect.

Wikipedia

For several cookies lay a moister towel over the plate.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Their Fair Share I have several cookie recipes I've adapted over many years.

The New York Times

Use 1 tablespoon of the butter to grease several cookie sheets.

The New York Times - Magazine

That is because the advertisement is one of several cookie-cutter versions all made by Americans for Job Security, a national advocacy group with strong ties to Republicans.

The New York Times

Danone began a transformation process last year, when it offloaded several cookie brands to Kraft and chose to concentrate on dairy and nutritional products.

Forbes

Grease several cookie sheets.

WikiHow

You might decide to host a cookie exchange, where each family or person bakes several dozen cookies, and then everyone gathers together to share their recipes and their treats.

WikiHow

For dessert, several slender cookies and two of the richest, most luxurious chocolates imaginable.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "several cookies", ensure the context clarifies whether the exact number matters. If precision is needed, consider specifying the quantity.

Common error

"Several" implies more than two but not a large number. Avoid using it if you mean a significant or overwhelming amount.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "several cookies" functions as a noun phrase, where "several" acts as a determiner quantifying the noun "cookies". It modifies the noun to indicate an indefinite quantity greater than two. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

37%

Science

13%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "several cookies" is a grammatically correct and usable noun phrase that describes an unspecified quantity of cookies, more than two but not many. Ludwig's analysis indicates its usage is generally neutral and common in News & Media and Wiki contexts. While interchangeable with phrases like "a few cookies" or "some cookies", it's important to consider the context to ensure clarity and avoid misinterpretations of quantity. When precision is required, specifying the exact number of cookies is always preferable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a number of cookies

Emphasizes an unspecified quantity, similar to "several", but may imply a slightly larger amount.

a few cookies

Indicates a small, indefinite quantity of cookies, suggesting fewer than "several".

some cookies

A general term for an unspecified quantity of cookies.

multiple cookies

Highlights the fact that there's more than one cookie, focusing on the multiplicity.

various cookies

Suggests a selection of different types of cookies.

a couple of cookies

Implies exactly two cookies; a more specific quantity than "several".

a handful of cookies

Indicates the amount of cookies that can be held in one hand, providing a visual quantity.

a batch of cookies

Refers to a group of cookies baked together at one time.

a selection of cookies

Emphasizes the variety and choice among the cookies.

a stack of cookies

Implies the cookies are piled on top of each other.

FAQs

How can I use "several cookies" in a sentence?

"Several cookies" is used to refer to an unspecified number of cookies, more than two but not many. For example: "I ate "several cookies" after dinner."

What's a good substitute for "several cookies"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "a few cookies", "some cookies", or "a number of cookies".

Is it better to say "several cookies" or specify the exact number?

If the precise number is important, specify it (e.g., "three cookies"). Use ""several cookies"" when the exact quantity is not crucial.

What's the difference between "a few cookies" and "several cookies"?

"A few cookies" generally suggests a smaller quantity than ""several cookies"". The terms are often interchangeable, but "several" implies a slightly larger amount.