TextRanch

The best way to perfect your writing.

Discover why 1,062,726 users count on TextRanch to get their English corrected!

1. Input your text below.
2. Get it corrected in a few minutes by our editors.
3. Improve your English!

One of our experts will correct your English.

Our experts

a couple was vs a couple were

Both 'a couple was' and 'a couple were' can be correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'A couple was' is used when referring to the couple as a single unit, while 'a couple were' is used when referring to the individuals within the couple. The choice between 'was' and 'were' depends on whether you are treating the couple as a singular entity or as separate individuals.

Last updated: March 25, 2024 • 2673 views

a couple was

This phrase is correct when referring to the couple as a single unit.

Use 'a couple was' when referring to the couple as a single entity or unit. This is the singular form of the phrase.

Examples:

  • A couple was seen entering the restaurant.
  • A couple was dancing on the dance floor.
  • A couple was violently murdered last night.
  • Two days ago, a couple was kidnapped at Jackson University.
  • I just didn't think that the time to announce that Marcy and I are a couple was when we had just found out that Antonio was dead.

Alternatives:

  • the couple was
  • this couple was
  • that couple was
  • my couple was
  • your couple was

a couple were

This phrase is correct when referring to the individuals within the couple.

Use 'a couple were' when referring to the individuals within the couple. This is the plural form of the phrase.

Examples:

  • A couple were arguing about their vacation plans.
  • A couple were sitting at the table, each lost in thought.

Alternatives:

  • the couple were
  • this couple were
  • that couple were
  • my couple were
  • your couple were

Related Comparisons

What Our Customers Are Saying

Our customers love us! We have an average rating of 4.79 stars based on 283,125 votes.
Also check out our 2,100+ reviews on TrustPilot (4.9TextRanch on TrustPilot).

Why choose TextRanch?

Lowest prices
Up to 50% lower than other online editing sites.

Fastest Times
Our team of editors is working for you 24/7.

Qualified Editors
Native English experts for UK or US English.

Top Customer Service
We are here to help. Satisfaction guaranteed!