How Do You Spell A FEW?

Pronunciation: [ɐ fjˈuː] (IPA)

The spelling of the phrase "a few" corresponds to its pronunciation. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is /ə ˈfjuː/, where the first sound is the short u vowel and the second sound is a diphthong consisting of the "y" sound and the long u vowel. The stress falls on the second syllable "few." This phrase means "a small number of things or people" and is commonly used in everyday conversation. Proper spelling and pronunciation are important in effective communication.

A FEW Meaning and Definition

1. The term "a few" is an idiomatic expression commonly used in English language to indicate a small number that is greater than one. It conveys the idea of a limited quantity, but not necessarily specifying an exact number or range.

   "A few" suggests a countable amount that exists above the minimum threshold of "one" but is still relatively small. It signifies a quantity that is perceivable or noticeable, but not substantial or large. This expression allows for some flexibility and subjectivity, as the exact number or range may vary depending on the context, intent, and speaker's interpretation.

   Typically, the term "a few" implies more than two or three, denoting a small handful or a modest collection. However, it does not specify an upper limit and can encompass numbers up to and including ten or a dozen, depending on the situation. It denotes a quantity that can be counted on one's fingers, forming a perceptible set.

   In summary, "a few" refers to a small number, indicating a quantity greater than one but less than a specific or significant amount. It is a flexible expression that factors in context, suggesting a modest quantity that can generally be counted on one's hands or perceived as a discernible collection.

Common Misspellings for A FEW

• w few

Etymology of A FEW

The word "few" originated from the Old English word "fēawa". It is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "fawaz", which means "few" or "little". The evolution of "few" and the addition of the article "a" before it gave rise to the phrase "a few". The use of "a few" indicates a small number or quantity, often implying a positive or beneficial meaning.

Idioms with the word A FEW

• a few wellchosen words The idiom "a few well-chosen words" refers to a concise and skillfully constructed statement or speech that effectively conveys a message or meaning. It suggests that just a few words, carefully selected, can have a powerful impact or be more persuasive than a lengthy communication.
• drop a line and drop a few lines drop a note The idiom "drop a line" or "drop a few lines" or "drop a note" is commonly used to mean writing a short message or letter to someone, usually to keep them informed or in touch. It refers to the act of quickly writing and sending a brief communication to someone via letter, email, or any other means of written correspondence. It implies a casual and informal way of staying connected with someone by sharing a few lines of text.
• a few fries short of a Happy Meal The idiom "a few fries short of a Happy Meal" is a humorous way of describing someone who is not very intelligent or mentally lacking. It suggests that the person is missing a few key components or lacks the full package, just like a Happy Meal (a meal for children that usually includes a burger, fries, and a toy) that is missing some fries.
• hang a few on The idiom "hang a few on" refers to having multiple alcoholic drinks in a short period of time or getting drunk.
• get off a few good ones The idiom "get off a few good ones" typically means to deliver a few witty or clever remarks or jokes effectively. It refers to the ability to make people laugh or be impressed with one's quick wit or sense of humor.
• drop sm a line and drop sm a few lines drop sm a note The idiom "drop someone a line/note" is a phrase used to suggest sending a brief message or letter to someone. It signifies a simple and quick way of communicating with someone, typically to check in, say hello, or share some information without requiring an in-depth or lengthy conversation.
• a few bricks short of a (full) load The idiom "a few bricks short of a (full) load" is used to describe someone who is perceived as lacking intelligence or not being mentally sound. It implies that the person is missing some essential cognitive elements or understanding, similar to a load of bricks being incomplete or not fully functioning.
• a few bricks shy of a load The idiom "a few bricks shy of a load" is used to describe someone who is lacking intelligence, common sense, or mental capacity. It implies that the person is not fully mentally functioning or is mentally impaired.
• open a few doors The idiom "open a few doors" means to create or provide new opportunities or possibilities. It suggests exploring different options or taking actions that lead to new ventures or experiences. It conveys the idea of expanding one's opportunities or accessing different opportunities that were previously inaccessible.
• say a few words The idiom "say a few words" means to make a short speech or to speak briefly about a particular topic or in a specific context, typically during a gathering or formal event.
• to name a few The idiom "to name a few" is used when mentioning only a small or limited number of examples within a larger group or list. It implies that there are many more examples beyond the ones mentioned.
• have a few The idiom "have a few" typically refers to consuming a moderate amount of alcoholic beverages, usually drinks one after another. It implies enjoying a casual time with friends or acquaintances at a social gathering or a bar, without excessive or heavy drinking.
• have a few kangaroos loose in the top paddock The idiom "have a few kangaroos loose in the top paddock" is primarily used in Australian English and refers to someone who is perceived as mentally unsound, eccentric, or having unconventional behaviors or ideas. It suggests that the person's mental state may not be entirely rational or normal, likening it to having loose kangaroos (wild, unpredictable animals) in the top paddock (the upper field or area).
• ruffle a few feathers To "ruffle a few feathers" means to do or say something that upsets or irritates people, causing them to become angry, annoyed, or offended. It refers to causing a minor disruption or disturbance in a situation, often by challenging established norms or expectations.
• quite a few The idiom "quite a few" means a relatively large number or a significant amount.
• you can’t make an omelette without breaking a few eggs The idiom "you can't make an omelette without breaking a few eggs" means that some degree of sacrifice or negative consequences are unavoidable when trying to achieve something significant or beneficial. In order to accomplish a goal or make progress, it may be necessary to go through difficulties or endure certain losses. This phrase often implies that the end result justifies the means taken to achieve it.
• a few sandwiches short of a picnic The idiom "a few sandwiches short of a picnic" is often used to describe someone who is not very intelligent or mentally unstable. It suggests that the person is lacking common sense or rationality, similar to someone who forgets to bring enough food for a picnic.
• have a few lot etc. irons in the fire The idiom "have a few/lot/etc. irons in the fire" means to have multiple projects, activities, or endeavors ongoing simultaneously. It suggests that a person is busy and actively involved in several different things at once, often with the intention of achieving various goals or outcomes.
• hoist a few The expression "hoist a few" means to have a few drinks, usually alcoholic beverages, in a social setting. It implies the act of raising or lifting the drinks, suggesting the camaraderie and enjoyment of sharing a few drinks with friends or colleagues.
• have had a few The idiom "have had a few" is typically used to refer to someone who has consumed alcoholic beverages and is slightly intoxicated. It implies that the person has had more than one drink and may be showing signs of being under the influence of alcohol.
• you've got to crack a few eggs to make an omelette The idiom "you've got to crack a few eggs to make an omelette" means that in order to achieve something positive or desired, some sacrifices or negative consequences may be unavoidable. It suggests that there can be challenges, difficulties, or sacrifices involved in pursuing a goal or undertaking a task, but these are necessary steps towards achieving a successful outcome.
• have a few (too many) The idiom "have a few (too many)" means to consume more alcoholic beverages than one should or to become significantly intoxicated. It implies exceeding the reasonable or desired limit of drinking.
• a few ticks The idiom "a few ticks" refers to a small amount of time, usually a brief or short period. It can indicate a short delay or a short duration. The term "ticks" here is derived from the sound made by a ticking clock, symbolizing the passing of time. Therefore, "a few ticks" can be used to describe a quick or short interval.
• I have to wash a few things out.
• have a few/a lot etc. irons in the fire To have multiple projects or opportunities in progress or in consideration at the same time.
• ruffle somebody’s/a few feathers To ruffle somebody's/a few feathers means to upset or offend someone by saying or doing something controversial or provocative.
• pull (some/a few) strings To "pull (some/a few) strings" means to use one's influence or connections to achieve a desired outcome, typically in a secretive or manipulative manner. It implies that the individual is using personal connections or power to get what they want, often bypassing normal procedures or rules.
• Win a few, lose a few. This idiom means that sometimes you succeed or gain something, and other times you fail or lose something, and that this is just a part of life.
• you can't make an omelet without breaking (a few) eggs This idiom means that it is not possible to achieve something important or make progress without causing some trouble or creating some negative outcomes. Just like how you cannot make a delicious omelet without breaking the eggs first.
• raise (some/a few) eyebrows To raise eyebrows means to cause surprise, disapproval, or mild shock among others.
• pull (some/a few) wires To manipulate or influence a situation by using one's connections or relationships to achieve a desired outcome.
• a few/couple of steps The idiom "a few/couple of steps" refers to a short distance or proximity, usually indicating a small amount of progress or movement towards a goal or destination.
• have been around the block (a few times) The idiom "have been around the block (a few times)" means that someone has a lot of experience, has been through many different situations or challenges, and is well-versed in a particular subject or area. It implies that the person has seen and done a lot in their lifetime.
• a few, two, etc. bricks short of a load This idiom typically means someone is not very intelligent or mentally unsound. It suggests that the person is missing some important mental faculties, similar to saying they are "not all there" or "not playing with a full deck".
• raise (a few) eyebrows To do or say something that causes surprise, shock, or disapproval.
• ruffle somebody's/a few feathers To upset or annoy someone by doing or saying something that they do not approve of or find irritating.
• tie up (some/a few) loose ends To tie up (some/a few) loose ends means to resolve any remaining issues or tasks in order to complete something successfully or to ensure that all details are taken care of.
• have a few, several, etc. irons in the fire The idiom "have a few, several, etc. irons in the fire" means to have multiple projects, endeavors, or opportunities in progress simultaneously, in order to increase the likelihood of success or to have backup plans in place.
• a few The idiom "a few" is used to describe a small number of something, typically more than two but not many.