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Tuesday 22 June 2010

A couple

A couple, strictly speaking, has the meaning two. However the English language being what it is, I contend that, in casual usage, "a couple" can be used to mean 3 or 4. Certain persons disagree. I would value your input on this matter.
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5 comments:

  1. Andrew Brown23 June 2010 at 20:36

    I'd suggest it may depend on what you might be discussing. For example, if you were talking about oranges, a couple could mean two or three or even stretch to four.

    However, if you're talking about an intimate human relationship a couple means two, three become menage au trois, more than three an orgy.

    Hope this helps?

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  2. Anonymous24 June 2010 at 16:55

    When I announce to the wife that I am going to the pub for a couple of beers, both of us expect me to come home pissed. Hope this helps with your deliberations ?

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  3. Andrew Brown24 June 2010 at 20:55

    Here's a thought, if you're a labour Prime Minister, what does a couple of bad polls mean?

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  4. Dylan25 June 2010 at 09:42

    Context is everything.
    When the old bird says she'll be ready in a couple of minutes, I know I've got time enough for one half of a rugby game.
    When the man at the Subway across the road asks if I'd like a couple of olives, I know I'll be getting two.

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  5. Susan Smith25 June 2010 at 12:48

    I believe it is from the French 'cuple' - meaning bond.

    If we are to follow Andrew's initial train of thought it leads to bondage, and clearly any number can play.

    Following Anonymous's way of thinking allows for male bonding, and makes me think of locker rooms.........again, definitely more than two.

    And finally Dylan. Olives - the only way you can get them to bond is to turn them into oil.......which takes me back to Andrew & Anonymous...

    God - maybe I do need a man after all!!

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