A couple of Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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a couple of

[ˈkʌpəl əv ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

relationship

Two people who are in a romantic or intimate relationship and who are considered to be a pair or unit.

Synonyms

duo, pair, partners.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
a couple of	Used to refer to two things of the same kind in an informal setting. Appropriate for casual conversation. I need a couple of apples She has a couple of friends coming over
pair	Used to refer to two similar things that are meant to be used together, or two people in a close relationship or working together. I bought a new pair of shoes The detective pair solved the case together
duo	Used to describe two people who perform together or work closely together, often in entertainment or performance contexts. The comedic duo were a hit at the festival The musical duo released their new album
partners	Used to describe two people who are in a relationship or who work together in a business or collaborative effort. This can be used in both personal and professional settings. They are business partners in the new startup The dance partners won the competition

Examples of usage

They make a lovely couple.
I saw a couple holding hands in the park.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

quantity

A small number of something, typically two.

Synonyms

few, handful, pair.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
a couple of	Used to express a small number, typically two, but can sometimes mean a few. It is often used in informal contexts. I'll be there in a couple of minutes I bought a couple of books at the store
few	Indicates a small number, usually more than two but not many. It suggests a limited quantity. It can carry a slight negative connotation that something might be insufficient. Only a few people came to the meeting We have a few options to consider
pair	Specifically refers to two items that are usually closely associated or used together. I bought a new pair of shoes They are a great pair of friends
handful	Refers to a small number or amount that can be physically held in one hand. Often implies more than two, but still a small quantity. He grabbed a handful of nuts A handful of students stayed after class

Examples of usage

I only need a couple of minutes to finish this task.
She bought a couple of books at the store.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

informal

An indefinite but small number.

Synonyms

few, several, some.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
a couple of	Applied when referring to exactly two items or a very small, indefinite number close to two. I need a couple of minutes to finish this task. We saw a couple of birds in the garden.
few	Emphasizes scarcity; used to point out that there are not many of something, often with a slightly negative connotation. Few people attended the meeting. There are few opportunities for advancement in that field.
some	Indicates an indefinite quantity or number, typically more than one but without specifying an exact number; can be used in both positive and general situations. I would like some coffee. He made some good points during the presentation.
several	Describes a number that is more than two or three but not very many; often mid-sized quantity. Several students participated in the competition. I have been there several times.

Examples of usage

I'll be back in a couple of hours.
Just give me a couple to think about it.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'a couple of'

The word 'couple' originated from the Old French word 'cople', meaning 'two'. It has been used in English since the 13th century to refer to a pair or a small number of things. Over time, it has evolved to represent both a romantic relationship and a small quantity. The versatility of the word 'couple' has made it a common and widely understood term in the English language.