What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
several
Example
I have several books on my shelf that I haven't read yet. [several: determiner]
Example
The company hired several new employees this month. [several: adjective]
some
Example
Can I have some water, please? [some: determiner]
Example
There were some interesting articles in the newspaper today. [some: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Some is more commonly used than several in everyday language. Some is versatile and can be used in various contexts, while several is less common and typically used in more formal or specific situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between several and some?
Several is considered more formal than some. It is often used in academic or professional writing, while some is more casual and commonly used in everyday speech.
