"few pieces of" vs "a few pieces of"

Question

"few pieces of" vs "a few pieces of"

Both phrases are correct, but they have different meanings and are used in different contexts. 'A few pieces of' implies a small, but noticeable quantity of pieces, while 'few pieces of' implies a small or insufficient quantity of pieces. The addition of 'a' changes the meaning significantly.

Last Updated: March 29, 2024

This phrase is used when referring to a small or insufficient number of pieces. It indicates that there are not many pieces available.

Examples:

There are few pieces of evidence to support his claim.
She has few pieces of clothing suitable for the party.
He has few pieces of furniture in his living room.
There are few pieces of advice that can help in this situation.
The store has few pieces of the product left in stock.

Alternatives:

scant pieces of
limited pieces of

This phrase is used when referring to a small, but noticeable number of pieces. It indicates that there are some pieces, though not many.

Examples:

I have a few pieces of chocolate left.
She bought a few pieces of furniture for her new apartment.
There are a few pieces of information missing from the report.
He only needs a few pieces of equipment to start the project.
Can you bring a few pieces of paper for the meeting?

Alternatives:

several pieces of
some pieces of

Answer 1

few pieces of

This phrase is correct but implies a small or insufficient quantity of pieces. It has a more negative connotation compared to 'a few pieces of'.

Answer 2

a few pieces of

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English. It implies a small, but noticeable quantity of pieces.

"few pieces of" vs "a few pieces of"

few pieces of

a few pieces of

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