several instruments

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "several instruments" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to multiple tools or devices used for a specific purpose, often in contexts like music, science, or measurement. Example: "The orchestra was equipped with several instruments, including violins, flutes, and trumpets."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Riley switches between several instruments.

The Guardian - Music

He sang and played several instruments.

The Guardian - Music

He had several instruments painstakingly tune to one another.

The New York Times - Arts

The players are also asked to take up several instruments.

The New York Times

Each plays several instruments and often they switch up midshow.

The New York Times

He sang, played several instruments, wrote intense lyrics and led a dance troupe.

The New York Times

MIXED MEDIA "I paint and play seriously," said Faircloth, above left, who plays several instruments.

The New York Times

He showed the congressmen several instruments of torture that he had smuggled out.

The New York Times

"Cells are like tiny orchestras, and they contain several instruments," he said.

The New Yorker

Playing several instruments and being drawn to most musical styles is in Mr. Burhans's DNA.

The New York Times - Arts

We have several instruments at our disposal and we will use them".

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "several instruments", ensure the context clearly indicates the type of instruments being referred to (e.g. musical, scientific, surgical) for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "several instruments" when a more specific term would provide better clarity. Instead of saying "the lab uses several instruments", specify which ones: "the lab uses microscopes, spectrometers, and centrifuges".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "several instruments" typically functions as a noun phrase, acting as the object of a verb or the complement of a preposition. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. For example, "He played several instruments" or "The study used several instruments for data collection."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

29%

News & Media

27%

Academia

18%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

11%

Wiki

9%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "several instruments" is a versatile noun phrase used to denote multiple tools, devices, or implements. As Ludwig AI confirms, its grammatical status is correct, and it enjoys frequent use across various domains, including science, news, and academia. While generally neutral in tone, the surrounding context can influence its formality. To avoid ambiguity, specifying the type of instruments when possible is recommended. Alternatives like "multiple devices" or "various tools" can be used depending on the intended emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

multiple devices

Replaces "instruments" with "devices", emphasizing the functional aspect.

various tools

Substitutes "instruments" with "tools", highlighting the utility of the items.

a number of implements

Uses a more formal tone by replacing "several" and "instruments" with "a number of" and "implements".

diverse apparatuses

Employs more technical terms, suitable for scientific contexts.

assorted equipment

Replaces "instruments" with "equipment", focusing on the collective aspect.

different mechanisms

Highlights the functional aspects of the items.

numerous gadgets

Suggests a more informal and modern context.

a range of appliances

Focuses on practical applications, suitable for household or technological contexts.

an array of contraptions

Implies complexity or ingenuity in the design of the items.

various pieces of gear

More informal and implies a specific use or activity.

FAQs

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

You can use "several instruments" to describe a collection of tools or devices used for a particular purpose. For example, "The musician played "several instruments" during the concert" or "The scientists used "several instruments" to conduct the experiment".

What are some alternatives to "several instruments"?

Alternatives to "several instruments" include "multiple devices", "various tools", or "a number of implements", depending on the context.

Is it better to use "several instruments" or specify the instruments?

Specifying the instruments is often better for clarity. However, "several instruments" is appropriate when the exact instruments are either not important or are already understood by the audience. For example, "The technician calibrated "several instruments" in the lab today" is acceptable if it's known what instruments are typically used.

Can "several instruments" refer to non-physical tools?

While less common, "several instruments" can metaphorically refer to non-physical tools, such as policies or strategies. For instance, "The government employed "several instruments", including tax incentives and regulations, to stimulate the economy."