Several

Definition

The term "several" refers to more than two but not many; a number of people or things.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Pronoun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈsɛv.ɹəl/, /ˈsɛv.ɹəl/
• Respelling: SEV-ruhl, SEV-er-uhl

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈsɛv.ɹəl/, /ˈsɛv.ə.ɹəl/
• Respelling: SEV-ruhl, SEV-uh-ruhl

Etymology

The word "several" originates from the Latin "separalis," meaning "separate" or "distinct," which came into Middle English through Old French as "several." Initially, it denoted separateness before taking on the modern meaning of "a number of."

Derivatives

• Severally (adverb)
• Severality (noun)
• Severable (adjective)
• Severance (noun)
• Unsevered (adjective)

Synonyms

• Multiple
• Numerous
• Various

Antonyms

• Few
• None

Usage

The term "several" is used to indicate an indefinite but more-than-few quantity in both spoken and written language. For example: "I have several books to read," or "The meeting had several points of discussion."

Related Terms

• Few: A small number of items or people.
• Many: A large number of items or people.
• Fewness: The state of being small in number.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• More than two but not many: Refers to an indefinite number greater than two.
  • Example: "He made several attempts to solve the problem."

Pronoun

• An indefinite number of people or things: Refers to a group of items or individuals without specifying the exact count.
  • Example: "Several were chosen to participate in the project."