Several: meaning, definitions and examples

🔢

Add to dictionary

several

[ˈsɛv(ə)rəl ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

quantity

More than two but not many

Synonyms

multiple, numerous, various.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
several	Use when referring to a small but indefinite number of items, typically more than two but not many. She bought several books from the store. There are several reasons why he didn't come.
multiple	Use when referring to more than one entity, especially to emphasize the quantity and potentially the diversity. The project had multiple phases. She has multiple tasks to complete today.
numerous	Use when referring to a large number of items, usually in a formal or professional context. He has attended numerous conferences over the years. Numerous studies have shown the benefits of exercise.
various	Use when referring to different kinds or types of items. They discussed various topics during the meeting. There were various methods to solve the problem.

Examples of usage

I have several books on my shelf.
She bought several pairs of shoes for the trip.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

amount

Being more than two or three but not many

Synonyms

a couple, a few, some.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
several	Used when referring to more than two but not a large number, generally between three to five or six items. It suggests variety and can indicate that the amount is significant but not overwhelming. She owns several pets. We have visited several countries this year.
a few	Indicates a small number, typically more than two but not many, generally three to four items. It suggests scarcity but is often less specific than 'several'. I need a few minutes to finish this. There are a few apples left in the basket.
some	Used to refer to an unspecified amount that is not large but more than one. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts to indicate an indefinite quantity. I have some questions. There are some cookies in the kitchen.
a couple	Used when referring to exactly two items. It is commonly used in both casual and formal settings to indicate a precise number. I bought a couple of books. They are planning to stay for a couple of days.

Examples of usage

The teacher gave several examples to help the students understand the concept.
There were several reasons why she couldn't attend the meeting.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

quantity

A small number of something

Synonyms

a few, a handful, a small number.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
several	Used when the number of items or instances is more than a couple but not too many, typically around 3-7. It implies a noticeable amount but still countable. She has several pets, including a dog, a cat, and a few fish
a handful	This term is used to signify a very small, easily manageable number, often around 4-5. It can also imply that those few are either troublesome or a challenge to manage. Only a handful of students passed the difficult exam
a small number	Used to refer to a quantity that is definitely low but can vary according to context. Often a neutral, descriptive term. A small number of cars were parked outside the building
a few	Used when referring to a small number of items or instances, typically around 2-3. It implies a smaller quantity than 'several'. A few people showed up early to the meeting

Examples of usage

She only invited several to the party.
There were several of us who wanted to go to the concert.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'several' comes from the Latin word 'separalis,' meaning 'separate' or 'distinct.'
It first appeared in English around the 14th century, originally signifying 'different' or 'various.'

Mathematics

In math, 'several' is often used informally to describe a quantity that is more than few but less than many, usually considered to be around three to seven.
The concept of several is often used in statistics to refer to a sample size that is sufficient to draw general conclusions.

Literature

The word 'several' appears frequently in classical literature, often emphasizing diversity or variety in a context.
Authors like Shakespeare used it to characterize a group as being distinct from one another, enhancing themes of individuality.

Pop Culture

In movies and TV shows, characters often talk about 'several options' when making decisions, highlighting the idea of choice.
The phrase 'several times' is commonly used in songs and dialogues to express recurring events, indicating more than once.

Psychology

The perception of 'several' can vary based on context; people may interpret it differently depending on personal experiences.
Research shows that understanding of quantity words like 'several' can influence decision-making processes and expectations.

Translations

Translations of the word "several" in other languages:

🇵🇹 vários

🇮🇳 कई

🇩🇪 mehrere

🇮🇩 beberapa

🇺🇦 декілька

🇵🇱 kilka

🇯🇵 いくつかの

🇫🇷 plusieurs

🇪🇸 varios

🇹🇷 birkaç

🇰🇷 여러

🇸🇦 عدة

🇨🇿 několik

🇸🇰 niekoľko

🇨🇳 几个

🇸🇮 več

🇮🇸 nokkur

🇰🇿 бірнеше

🇬🇪 რამდენიმე

🇦🇿 bir neçə

🇲🇽 varios

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #189, this word is extremely common in English. It's a crucial part of basic vocabulary that's used constantly in both spoken and written communication, making it essential for even basic conversations.

...
186 action
187 necessary
188 effect
189 several
190 study
191 subject
192 find
...