English dictionary, thesaurus, translations & etymology
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det

several

SEHV-ruhl
det
1
More than two or three, but not very many.
"I've read several of his books."
"Several people arrived late to the meeting."
adj
1
Separate and distinct from one another.
"The committee members had several, and quite different, opinions."

How to Use Several

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA small but more-than-a-couple number of things, or things that are each separate.

Common mistake

Despite looking similar, "several" is not connected to the number "seven" or to the word "severe."

Easily confused with

Word Forms

more several comparative, severals plural, most several superlative

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Fill the Gap

Can you complete this real example?

I've read _____ of his books.

Etymology

From Medieval Latin separalis, from Latin separ ("separate"). Not related to "seven" or "severe" despite the similar spelling.

Rhymes for several

See all rhymes for several →
Definitions: FreeDict original editorial