A limited number of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "A limited number of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific, small quantity of something, often to indicate scarcity or exclusivity. Example: "We are offering a limited number of tickets for the concert, so be sure to purchase yours soon."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A limited number of competitor moves are likely.

Harvard Business Review

A limited number of private collectors have also bought work.

The New York Times - Magazine

A limited number of such day passes are available.

The New York Times - Travel

A limited number of additional spaces are available.

Harvard University

A limited number of handicapped parking spaces will be available.

Harvard University

A limited number of HLS exams will use this feature.

Harvard University

A limited number of handicapped parking spaces are available.

Harvard University

A limited number of partial scholarships will be awarded.

University of California, Berkeley

A limited number of full and partial scholarships are available.

Duke University

A limited number of seats is available.

Los Angeles Times

A limited number of seats are available.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Follow "a limited number of" with a specific noun to enhance readability and context. For example, "a limited number of seats", instead of just "a limited number".

Common error

Avoid using "a limited number of" if the quantity is not genuinely restricted or in demand. Overusing the phrase can diminish its impact and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a limited number of" functions as a determiner, specifically a quantifier, modifying a noun to indicate that the quantity of something is restricted or not abundant. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Academia

33%

Science

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a limited number of" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to indicate a restricted quantity of something. Ludwig's analysis confirms its correctness and widespread applicability across various contexts. It's suitable for diverse communication styles, though primarily neutral to professional, appearing in news, academic and science domains. Remember to ensure genuine scarcity when employing this phrase to maintain credibility. Consider alternatives such as "a small number of" or "only a few" to add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A small number of

Replaces "limited" with "small", emphasizing the reduced quantity.

Only a few

Directly states that the quantity is not large.

A restricted number of

Substitutes "limited" with "restricted", highlighting the constraint on the quantity.

A finite number of

Emphasizes that the quantity is countable and not infinite.

A select few

Indicates that only a chosen or exclusive group is included.

A reduced quantity of

Focuses on the diminished size or amount.

A handful of

Implies a very small and manageable quantity.

A controlled number of

Suggests that the quantity is being actively managed or kept in check.

A scarce amount of

Highlights the rarity or insufficient availability.

A specific number of

Emphasizes that there's a definite, though not necessarily large, quantity.

FAQs

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

You can use "a limited number of" to indicate that the quantity of something is restricted. For example, "A limited number of tickets are available for the event".

What can I say instead of "a limited number of"?

You can use alternatives like "a small number of", "only a few", or "a restricted number of" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "a limited number of" or "an limited number of"?

"A limited number of" is correct. The article "a" is used before consonant sounds, while "an" is used before vowel sounds. "Limited" begins with a consonant sound.

What's the difference between "a limited number of" and "the limited number of"?

"A limited number of" refers to a non-specific, restricted quantity. "The limited number of" refers to a specific, restricted quantity that has already been identified or is known to the audience.