few and far between
Meaning
Very rare; not happening or found often, with long gaps between occurrences.
Origin
From the literal idea of small numbers spaced widely apart; recorded in English from at least the early 1800s to describe things occurring at long intervals.
Notes
Emphasizes scarcity, often with a mildly negative or lamenting tone. Common in speech and writing, usually as a predicate: “X is/are few and far between.”
Examples
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Good jobs in this town are few and far between.
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Compliments from him are few and far between.
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These days, quiet moments are few and far between.
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Honest politicians are few and far between, or so people say.
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After the storm, dry patches were few and far between.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Fixed phrase with “and.” Most often used after a linking verb (“are few and far between”), but can also modify a plural noun (“few and far between opportunities”). Not usually varied in word order.
Synonyms
- rare
- scarce
- hard to come by
- thin on the ground
- not many
Antonyms
- common
- frequent
- plentiful
- abundant
- easy to find