To answer the question of whether “a few” is just 3, it is important to consider both the commonly understood meaning and the dictionary definition of the term.
In everyday usage, many people tend to use “a few” interchangeably with the number three. For instance, if someone says, “I’ll be there in a few minutes,” they generally mean they will arrive in approximately three minutes. This understanding has become a common convention in our language and is widely accepted.
However, if we delve into the dictionary definition of “a few,” it becomes evident that it does not necessarily mean three. The dictionary states that “a few” means “not many but more than one.” In this context, it implies a small number, but it does not specify a precise quantity. Therefore, “a few” can be interpreted as any number greater than one, including two, three, or even more.
It is worth noting that personal experiences and cultural contexts can influence our understanding of language. For example, in some cultures or specific situations, “a few” might indeed be used to mean exactly three. However, this is not a universally accepted definition.
In my personal experience, I have encountered instances where “a few” has been used to refer to more than three. For instance, if a friend invites me to a gathering and says, “Just bring a few snacks,” they typically mean that I should bring a small assortment of snacks, which could be more than three items.
While many people use “a few” to mean exactly three, the dictionary definition indicates that it refers to “not many but more than one.” Therefore, it is accurate to say that “a few” cannot be one, but it can be as low as two. The interpretation may vary based on personal experiences, cultural norms, and specific contexts.