several ones

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "several ones" is not commonly used in written English and may sound awkward.
It can be used when referring to multiple items or instances that are individually identified as "ones," but it's generally better to specify what those items are. Example: "I have several ones that I need to choose from for the project."

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

There were several 911 calls.

The New York Times

Among the equipment were several 35-mm.

The New Yorker

All variations are of several 0.1.

Advances in Space Research

Several Gal1-targeting compounds have recently emerged.

European Journal of Cancer

Several 2-factor interactions are also significant.

Procedia CIRP

Several CXCR4 antagonists have been synthesized.

Neoplasia

I started by hitting several 8-irons reasonably well.

The New York Times

Removal of SnCs delays several pathologies7,8,9 and increases healthy lifespan8.

Nature

Several XZ2 halides have the same structure as fluorite (CaF2).

Britannica

33 added by several 15th-century English hands.

Yale University

Variations show up in several 19th-century American cookbooks.

The New York Times - Food

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Instead of saying "several ones", specify the noun you are referring to. For example, use "several items", "several examples", or "several instances" for clarity and better style.

Common error

Avoid using "several ones" because it is often seen as redundant. The word "several" already implies more than one, so specifying "ones" is usually unnecessary and can make your writing sound less professional.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "several ones" functions as a quantifier followed by a pronoun, indicating multiple unspecified entities. Ludwig AI indicates it is not commonly used and may sound awkward. The purpose of the phrase is to denote a quantity greater than one but without specifying the exact number.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while grammatically acceptable, the phrase "several ones" is often considered awkward and redundant. Ludwig AI suggests specifying the noun you are referring to for better clarity and style. More suitable alternatives include phrases like "several items", "multiple instances", or "a few examples", depending on the context. Because it is considered as bad-sounding the lack of examples means that authoritative sources do not make use of this kind of phrasing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Several items

Replaces "ones" with a more specific and common noun.

Multiple instances

Uses a more formal term for "ones", emphasizing the occurrence of something.

A few examples

Offers a less formal alternative to "several", specifying "examples".

Various cases

Substitutes "ones" with "cases", suitable when referring to situations or scenarios.

Numerous individuals

Replaces "ones" with "individuals", applicable when referring to people.

A number of entities

Uses a more formal term for "ones", suitable in academic or technical contexts.

Some selections

Implies a choice from a larger group, replacing "ones" with "selections".

Certain elements

Replaces "ones" with "elements", appropriate when discussing components of a whole.

A collection of objects

Uses a broader term that refers to a set of items.

Different units

Refers to distinct components or parts.

FAQs

Is it grammatically correct to say "several ones"?

While technically grammatically correct, "several ones" can sound awkward. It's often better to specify what you're referring to, such as "several items" or "multiple instances".

What's a more natural way to express "several ones"?

Instead of "several ones", try using phrases like "a few examples", "various cases", or simply specifying the noun, like "several options".

When is it appropriate to use "several ones"?

It's rarely the best choice, but "several ones" might be used when "ones" is explicitly contrasted with "zeros" or another specific term. However, rephrasing is usually preferable for clarity.

Which is better, "several ones" or "multiple ones"?

Neither is ideal, but "multiple instances" generally sounds more formal and slightly less awkward than "several ones". Specifying the noun is still the best option in most cases.