A number of dates

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "A number of dates" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to multiple specific dates or a range of dates in a context such as scheduling or planning. Example: "We have a number of dates available for the conference, so please let us know which one works best for you."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

A number of dates are important.

The New York Times - Sports

A number of dates were rescheduled following the death of Jagger's girlfriend, L'Wren Scott, in March 2014.

The Guardian - Music

A number of dates have been suggested for the establishment of the priory, with estimates ranging from as early as 1114, to as late as 1156.

Wikipedia

In 2010, Bert Jansch opened for Neil Young on a number of dates.

The New Yorker

There are a number of dates and times to suit differing age groups, with 15 places on each course.

The Guardian - Travel

David is playing a number of dates across the UK this year, and expect plenty of festival slots.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

For prehistoric events a number of dating techniques can be employed.

Journal of Applied Volcanology

Unlike a number of dating sites, Gleeden doesn't ask for a monthly membership fee.

TechCrunch

The effect of so called uranium/thorium-series disequilibria give rise to a number of dating methods.

Heritage Science

(Match is the parent company to a number of dating apps, including OKCupid, Tinder, PlentyofFish, and others).

TechCrunch

That's paved the way for a number of dating apps including an extramarital affairs app Gleeden, matchmaking app Wingman, and LGBTQ dating app Grindr, The Economic Times reported.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When precision is crucial, consider replacing "a number of dates" with a specific count (e.g. "three dates", "five dates").

Common error

Ensure the context clarifies whether "a number of dates" refers to a small selection or a large quantity; otherwise, use a more specific quantifier.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "A number of dates" functions as a determiner phrase, specifying the quantity of the noun "dates". It modifies the noun to indicate that there is more than one date, without stating the exact count. As Ludwig AI confirms, this expression is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Wiki

23%

Science

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "A number of dates" is a common and grammatically correct way to indicate that there are multiple dates in a given context. As Ludwig AI points out, this expression is both correct and usable. While versatile, writers should consider the context to determine whether specifying the exact number of dates would provide greater clarity. The phrase is most frequently used in news and media, wiki entries, and scientific publications. For alternatives, "several dates", "multiple dates", and "various dates" can be used depending on the desired nuance. Considering the number of example usages, the phrase is classified as "common".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Several dates

Uses a different quantifier to indicate more than one date.

Various dates

Emphasizes the variety of dates available.

Multiple dates

Directly states that there are more than one date.

A selection of dates

Highlights the availability of a choice among dates.

A range of dates

Indicates a span or series of dates.

Numerous dates

Implies a large quantity of dates.

A few dates

Indicates more than one dates with less emphasis on quantity.

Some dates

A more general term indicating the presence of dates.

A quantity of dates

Expresses the presence of dates with less precision.

Different dates

Highlights the variability and diversity among the dates.

FAQs

What does "A number of dates" mean?

The phrase "A number of dates" indicates that there are several dates, but it does not specify the exact quantity. It implies more than one date and can suggest a limited or considerable amount, depending on the context.

How can I use "A number of dates" in a sentence?

You can use it to refer to availability, scheduling, or historical events. For instance: "There are "a number of dates" available for the conference", or "The museum features artifacts from "a number of dates" in the 18th century".

What can I say instead of "A number of dates"?

You can use alternatives like "several dates", "multiple dates", or "various dates", depending on the context. Each alternative slightly changes the emphasis.

Is it better to use "A number of dates" or specify the exact number?

It depends on the context. If the exact number is known and relevant, specifying it provides clarity. If the specific number is unimportant or unknown, using "A number of dates" is appropriate. For example, "We have three confirmed dates" is more precise than "We have "a number of dates"".