Couple
UK /["/ˈkʌpl/"]/US /["/ˈkʌpl/"]/
Definition
two people or things
In simple words: Two people together, often in a romantic relationship.
Examples
- The couple walked hand in hand along the beach.
- We saw a couple of interesting movies last weekend.
- That couple always seems so happy together.
- Could you lend me a couple of dollars?
- A couple of friends are coming over tonight.
Usage notes
Use 'couple' to refer to romantic partners or two items. Avoid using it in formal contexts to describe groups larger than two.
Grammar pattern
couple + object (e.g., couple with friends)
Memory hint
Think of 'couple' as 'a couple to cuddle'.
Collocations
- adorable
- attractive
- beautiful
- make
- the happy couple
Synonyms
- pair
- duo
- twosome
- partners
- friends
Antonyms
- single
- alone
Common mistakes
- 'Couple' used as a verb incorrectly (it's a noun).
- Confusing 'couple' with 'pair' in contexts where only romance is implied.
- Using 'couples' as a singular form.