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several — more than two but not very many

Part of speech: ADJECTIVE

Definition: more than two but not very many

Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈsevərəl/

Example Sentences

  • I've tried calling you several times, but you never pick up - are you avoiding me or just really bad at hearing your phone?
  • She has several cats, and yes, she's single - what a shocking coincidence!
  • The project will take several weeks to complete.

several

ADJECTIVE

[/ˈsevərəl/]

more than two but not very many

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🎤Pronunciation

🇺🇸 US/ˈsevərəl/
🇬🇧 UK/ˈsevərəl/

🌳Etymology

Rootsever
Suffix--al

Origin

The word derives from Latin 'separalis', meaning 'separated' or 'individual'. Originally denoting things kept apart or distinct, it gradually evolved to express the quantitative concept of 'more than two but not very many'.

Breakdown

separ- (to separate, divide) + -al (adjective suffix, denoting relationship or quality).

🎵Rhyme

federal
general
mineral

🔗Collocations

several times
several years
several people
several reasons
several hours
several days

📝Examples

😄 Fun example

“I've tried calling you several times, but you never pick up - are you avoiding me or just really bad at hearing your phone?”

😄 Fun example

“She has several cats, and yes, she's single - what a shocking coincidence!”

“The project will take several weeks to complete.”

“Several students were absent from class today.”

📚Related Words

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