several samples

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "several samples" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to multiple examples or instances of something, often in a scientific or analytical context. Example: "In our study, we collected several samples from different locations to ensure a comprehensive analysis."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Lagodich produced several samples of stained wood from a bag.

The New Yorker

Patients must do the stool tests themselves at home on several samples, the cancer society emphasizes.

The New York Times - Health

His DNA was detected in several samples as well, though not on the yellow underwear.

The New York Times

It was also discovered in several samples of dietary supplements that are made by some of the same manufacturers who make formula.

The New York Times

TCM also offers several samples this weekend ("Carefree," "Shall We Dance," and "Swing Time") of his terpsichorean wonders — which also reveal the leaden feet of his directorial dictates.

The New Yorker

The newspaper l'Equipe alleges that EPO was found in several samples provided by Armstrong during the 1999 Tour, when these were retested for research purposes.

The Guardian - Sport

A biologist aiding in the investigation said the increasing potency of anthrax in the letters might suggest that the attacker was a thief who stole several samples.

The New York Times

The biochemists monitoring the chemical profile of my blood unexpectedly told me that they needed several samples before I started doing Atkins.

The Guardian

There are repeated allusions to weed and several samples of a 1971 record called "A Child's Garden of Grass: A Pre-Legalization Comedy".

The New Yorker

These methods cannot measure the properties of several samples simultaneously.

Materials for Renewable and Sustainable Energy

Table 1 lists several samples of Tampere bus journey data.

Data Science and Engineering

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When presenting research findings, use "several samples" to indicate that your results are based on more than just a few data points, lending credibility to your analysis.

Common error

Avoid using "several samples" when you only have a small, potentially unrepresentative group. Be accurate in your description to maintain research integrity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "several samples" functions as a noun phrase, where "several" acts as a determiner specifying the quantity of the noun "samples". This indicates a non-specific but more than a few number of specimens or items under consideration. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in a wide range of contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

55%

News & Media

37%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "several samples" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to indicate multiple instances or specimens, particularly in scientific and analytical contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its appropriateness in English writing. While suitable for both casual and formal communication, its frequency is higher in Science and News & Media, suggesting a more neutral to formal register. When using the phrase, remember to ensure your sample size is accurately represented to maintain credibility. Alternatives include "multiple examples" and "a number of specimens".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a number of specimens

Replaces "several" with "a number", emphasizing a collection of items.

multiple examples

Substitutes "samples" with "examples", highlighting instances or occurrences.

various instances

Uses "various" instead of "several", indicating diversity among the occurrences.

a few specimens

Implies a smaller quantity compared to "several samples".

a range of examples

Suggests a spectrum or variety within the instances.

numerous items

Replaces both words to emphasize a large quantity of undefined things.

diverse samples

Focuses on the heterogeneity and variety within the specimens.

select samples

Emphasizes that the samples were specifically chosen from all those available.

some specimens

Indicates an unspecified quantity of items being referred to.

a selection of samples

Implies a curated or intentionally chosen group of samples.

FAQs

How can I use "several samples" in a scientific paper?

In scientific writing, "several samples" indicates you've analyzed more than a couple, suggesting greater reliability. For example, "We analyzed "several samples" from each location to account for variability".

What's a good alternative to "several samples" in formal writing?

Alternatives include "multiple examples" or "numerous instances", which maintain a formal tone while conveying the idea of more than just a few items.

Is it okay to use "several samples" in casual conversation?

Yes, "several samples" is perfectly acceptable in casual conversation. It's a clear and concise way to indicate that you're referring to more than just a couple of items. Consider "a few specimens" or "some items" for an even more casual tone.

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

"Several samples" implies a larger quantity than "a few samples". While both indicate more than one, "several" suggests a more substantial number, adding weight to any conclusions drawn from them.