several stops

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "several stops" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when referring to multiple locations or points of interest in a journey or route. For example, "The bus will make several stops along the way." Alternative expressions include "multiple stops" and "a few stops."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The plane made several stops.

The Guardian

Pancake breakfasts are offered at several stops.

The New York Times - Travel

Several stops had been called off for security reasons.

The New York Times

The tour started in late April and several stops have been sold out.

The New York Times

The Collegium tour was also to have included several stops in China.

The New York Times

THE COMMUTE The A train makes several stops in the neighborhood.

The New York Times

Trying to outflank Mr. Hayworth, Mr. McCain has made several stops in the border region recently.

The New York Times

Regaling His Guests After several stops in Rwanda, Mr. Clinton and his entourage flew to Uganda.

The New York Times

I frantically fled the train several stops early and flagged a cab.

The New York Times

I followed it through several stops and starts as it loaded excited children.

The New York Times

We make several stops but the highlights are the lovely villages of Concordia and Copola.

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

The phrase is highly effective in narrative writing to indicate a journey's progression without slowing down the pace with specific lists.

Common error

A frequent error involves pairing the quantifier with a singular noun, such as writing "several stop". Because "several" inherently refers to more than one, it must always be followed by the plural "stops". Additionally, do not confuse it with "severe stops", which would imply a harsh or sudden halt rather than a quantity of locations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "several stops" functions as a noun phrase where "several" acts as a determiner (quantifier) modifying the plural count noun "stops". According to Ludwig AI, it is primarily used to quantify frequency or locations within a sequence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Science

12%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Social Media

5%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "several stops" is an essential and versatile component of the English language, primarily used to describe journeys, logistical routes and processes with multiple stages. Data from Ludwig shows that it is exceptionally common in high-tier journalism, where it serves to summarize movements efficiently. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and functions as a standard quantifier. It is most effective when the writer wish to avoid the specificity of a number while still indicating a significant plurality. Whether used in the context of a subway commute, a political tour or a scientific procedure involving "several stops" and starts, it remains a reliable choice for clear communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

multiple stops

Sounds slightly more technical or clinical, often used in logistics

a number of stops

A more neutral and slightly more formal way to indicate plurality

a few stops

Suggests a smaller number, typically three or four

various stops

Emphasizes the diversity or different nature of the locations

a handful of stops

Idiomatic expression suggesting a small, manageable number

numerous stops

Implies a larger quantity than several, suggesting many

occasional stops

Implies stops that happen infrequently or without a strict schedule

periodic stops

Suggests stops that occur at regular intervals

sundry stops

An archaic or very formal term meaning various or diverse

several layovers

Specific to travel, indicating wait times between flights or trains

FAQs

How do I use "several stops" in a sentence?

You can use "several stops" to describe any journey with multiple points of interest, for example: "The commuter train made "multiple stops" before reaching the city center".

What is the difference between "several stops" and "a few stops"?

While both indicate a small number, "several stops" usually implies a slightly higher count (typically 3 to 7) compared to "a few stops", which often suggests only 2 or 3.

Can "several stops" be used in a professional report?

Yes, it is widely used in professional and journalistic contexts. However, for a more technical tone, you might consider using "various checkpoints" or "multiple stations".

Is it correct to say "several stops" when talking about a bus?

Absolutely. It is the most common way to describe a bus route that isn't an express service, such as saying "the bus makes several stops" along the boulevard.