A finite number of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "A finite number of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific, countable quantity of items or elements in a mathematical or general context. Example: "In this experiment, we will analyze a finite number of samples to ensure accuracy in our results."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A finite number of rule-driven, repetitive steps.

The Guardian - Opinion

"We have a finite number of troops.

The New York Times

"There are a finite number of jobs.. . .

The Washington Post

There are a finite number of junior doctors.

The Guardian

The world has a finite number of Tyrannosaurs rexes.

The Guardian

Other equations have a finite number of rational solutions.

Princeton University

Consider a situation where a finite number of players (individuals, companies, countries) each has a finite number of possible strategies.

University of California, Berkeley

"There are a finite number of babies each year".

The New York Times

Our own universe has a finite number of jobs, a finite number of educational places and a requirement by the inhabitants to have shelter and food.

The Guardian

Brouwer, Nash demonstrated that such an equilibrium exists in any game with a finite number of players and a finite number of moves to choose from.

The New Yorker

"There is a finite number of good marathons in anyone," Radcliffe said.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a finite number of" to clearly communicate that the quantity or set being discussed has a specific, countable limit. This helps to avoid ambiguity and ensures clarity in both technical and general contexts.

Common error

While similar to "a finite number of", using "a limited number of" might imply the quantity is simply small or restricted, but not necessarily countable or precisely defined. Always use "a finite number of" when you want to emphasize the exact limit or countability of something.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a finite number of" functions as a determiner phrase, specifically quantifying a noun. It indicates that the noun it modifies has a limited, countable quantity. Ludwig provides numerous examples in diverse contexts, affirming its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Academia

25%

News & Media

38%

Science

32%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a finite number of" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to denote a limited and countable quantity. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's widely accepted and appears in diverse contexts, from academic and scientific writing to news and media. When writing, it's important to use "a finite number of" when you specifically want to emphasize countability rather than just a general restriction. Related phrases include ""a limited number of"" and ""a fixed number of"", each with slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A limited quantity of

Emphasizes the restriction in amount, similar to the original phrase.

A restricted amount of

Highlights the constraints placed on the quantity available.

A fixed number of

Indicates a set, unchanging quantity.

A definite number of

Suggests a precise and known quantity.

A certain number of

Implies that the quantity is known, but not necessarily specified.

A bounded number of

Indicates that the quantity has an upper limit.

A measurable amount of

Highlights the ability to quantify the amount.

A countable number of

Stresses that the quantity can be counted.

Only a handful of

Suggests a small and easily managed quantity.

A scarce amount of

Indicates that the quantity is limited and potentially insufficient.

FAQs

How can I use "a finite number of" in a sentence?

You can use "a finite number of" to describe a limited and countable quantity. For example, "There are "a finite number of possibilities" to consider before making a decision."

What phrases are similar to "a finite number of"?

Similar phrases include "a limited number of", "a fixed number of", or "a definite number of". The best choice depends on the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a finite number of" in formal writing?

Yes, "a finite number of" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly in academic, scientific, and technical contexts where precision is important. It clearly indicates a specific, countable limitation.

How does "a finite number of" differ from "an infinite number of"?

"A finite number of" indicates a limited, countable quantity, while "an infinite number of" suggests a quantity without any limit. For example, there are a finite number of students in a class but potentially an infinite number of points on a line.