several
When used to mean 'more than two,' several usually refers to a small number—typically more than 'a few' but fewer than 'many.' In formal or legal contexts, it can be used as an adjective meaning 'separate' or 'distinct,' such as in the phrase "several liabilities," referring to obligations that are individual rather than shared.
💬Casual Conversation
🎬Tuesday afternoon, Victoria is in a board meeting while David is at his desk.
Victoria
Your report has several glaring holes. Fix them or don't bother coming in tomorrow.
David
My bad. I'll pivot the strategy and touch base by EOD.
💡
Victoria uses 'several' to quantify specific, unacceptable errors in David's work. David responds with corporate buzzwords ('pivot', 'touch base', 'EOD') to mask his panic, highlighting their power dynamic.
Meanings
pronoun
More than two but not many of a particular group.
"Many applied for the job, but several were rejected."