"at a couple" vs "at the couple"

Question

"at a couple" vs "at the couple"

The phrases 'at a couple' and 'at the couple' are not directly comparable as they have different meanings. 'At a couple' implies a non-specific couple, while 'at the couple' refers to a specific couple. Therefore, the choice between them depends on the context in which they are used.

Last Updated: March 15, 2024

This phrase is used when referring to any couple in a general or non-specific way. It indicates that the speaker is not referring to a particular couple.

Examples:

I saw at a couple of lovebirds in the park.
She waved at a couple walking down the street.
There were at a couple of dancers on the stage.
He smiled at a couple holding hands.
They sat at a couple of empty chairs.

Alternatives:

at some couples
at a few couples
at several couples
at various couples
at different couples

This phrase is used when referring to a particular couple that has been identified or is known in the context of the conversation. It indicates a specific couple, not just any couple.

Examples:

I saw John and Mary at the couple's house.
She waved at the couple sitting at the table.
There were at the couple who won the dance competition.
He smiled at the couple with the cute dog.
They sat at the couple's reserved table.

Alternatives:

at that couple
at this couple
at those couples
at these couples
at a specific couple

Answer 1

at a couple

The phrase 'at a couple' is correct and commonly used in English. It refers to an unspecified couple.

Answer 2

at the couple

The phrase 'at the couple' is correct and commonly used in English. It refers to a specific couple that is known or previously mentioned.

"at a couple" vs "at the couple"

at a couple

at the couple

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