Translation guide
In Japanese, expressing 'a few people' depends on the context, such as whether you are counting people, describing a small group, or using it as a subject. The most common way is to use a counter with 数 (suu) or a small number like 2, 3, or 4 people.
A few people came.
I went with a few people.
To say 'a few people' when referring to an approximate small number, typically 2 to 4 individuals.
This is the most direct and common way to say 'a few people'. It is neutral and can be used in both spoken and written Japanese.
Literally 'two or three people', this is a very natural way to express 'a few people' in casual conversation. It implies a small, indefinite number.
Let's go with a few people.
Similar to 2、3人, this means 'three or four people' and is used when the number is slightly larger but still small.
I had a meal with a few people.
This means 'a small number of people' and is more formal or written. It emphasizes the minority aspect.
A few people opposed.
To refer to a small group of people in a descriptive way, often as a noun phrase.
To express that a small number of people do something or are in a state, often with a focus on the smallness of the number.
This explicitly says 'a few people' as the subject. It is clear and natural, though slightly more wordy than 数人 alone.
To stress that only a few people are involved, often with a nuance of scarcity.
Adding ほんの emphasizes 'just a few' or 'only a few'. It is natural and commonly used.
数人 (suunin) is more specific and means 'a few people' (around 2-4). 何人か (nanninka) is vaguer and can mean 'some people' or 'several people', often used when the exact number is unknown or unimportant.
I asked a few people, but nobody knew.
There were only a few people at the event.
I asked a few people.
2、3人に手伝ってもらった。
I got a few people to help.
This noun means 'small number of people' and is often used to describe groups, classes, or gatherings. It is neutral and common.
It's a class with a few people.
We held a party with a few people.
Similar to 数人, but slightly more formal. Often used in written contexts or official announcements.
A few employees attended.
A few people are waiting.
This means 'some people' or 'a few people' and is very common in spoken Japanese. It is vague and implies an unspecified small number.
A few people raised their hands.
I met a few people.
Only a few people came.
This means 'a small number of people' with a nuance of 'few' or 'scant'. It can be used in both spoken and written contexts.
Only a few people agreed.
何人かがもう帰った。
Some people have already left.
Do not directly translate 'a few' as 少し (sukoshi) when referring to people. 少し人 (sukoshi hito) is unnatural. Use counters or phrases like 数人 or 2、3人 instead.
A few people helped me move.