a cap on the number of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a cap on the number of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing limitations or restrictions on quantities, such as in policies, regulations, or agreements. Example: "The new policy will impose a cap on the number of participants allowed in the program."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

As of 2002, it could be prescribed by any doctor who took a brief training course, anywhere in the medical system (although there is a cap on the number of patients that one doctor is allowed to treat).

Vice

He favors preserving noteworthy architecture, but suggests a cap on the number of protected buildings at any one time.

The New York Times

She wanted a slightly higher salary than the starting offer, paid maternity leave for one semester, a pre-tenure sabbatical, a cap on the number of new classes that she would teach each semester, and a deferred starting date.

The New Yorker

And he went after one of the military's most sacrosanct personnel structures, placing a cap on the number of generals, admirals and senior civilian positions.

The New York Times

As a result, there will no longer be a cap on the number of places available.

The Guardian

Mr. Obama has proposed placing a cap on the number of U.S. troops in Iraq.

The New York Times

Could there be a cap on the number of meetings per week?

The Guardian

They can put a cap on the number of troops the president can send.

The Economist

There is also a cap on the number of paid messages any user can receive.

Independent

And is there a cap on the number of teams you would like to have in the league?

The New York Times

After the temporary visas were struck down the minister introduced a cap on the number of protection claims by boat arrivals already in Australia.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a cap on the number of", clearly state the reason for the limitation to provide context and avoid ambiguity. For instance, "a cap on the number of students admitted was implemented due to limited resources".

Common error

Avoid ambiguity by specifying the exact numerical limit when you mention "a cap on the number of". For example, instead of saying "There's a cap on attendees", state "There's a cap of 500 attendees".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a cap on the number of" functions as a noun phrase that describes a limit or restriction. It's commonly used to specify that there is an upper boundary on a particular quantity. As Ludwig AI states, it is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Formal & Business

6%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Science

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a cap on the number of" is a very common and grammatically correct phrase used to express a limit or restriction on a quantity. According to Ludwig AI, it's suitable for various contexts, particularly in news, business, and policy-related discussions. While alternatives like "a limit on the number of" exist, "a cap on the number of" often implies a more formal and officially established restriction. To ensure clarity, always specify the exact limit when using this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a limit to the quantity of

Emphasizes the imposition of a maximum quantity allowed.

a ceiling for the amount of

Implies an upper boundary or maximum value that cannot be exceeded.

a restriction regarding the quantity of

Focuses on the imposed limitations concerning the amount or quantity.

a maximum allowance for the number of

Specifies a permissible upper limit for a numerical quantity.

a fixed quota for the quantity of

Highlights a predetermined and unchangeable amount or portion.

a prescribed quantity of

Indicates an officially set amount that is required or permitted.

a defined upper threshold for the number of

Emphasizes a specified maximum level or limit that should not be surpassed.

an established boundary for the quantity of

Implies a clearly set limit defining the scope or range of the quantity.

a set amount for the number of

Indicates a predetermined figure or quantity that cannot be altered.

a controlled quantity of

Focuses on the management and regulation of the amount or number.

FAQs

How can I use "a cap on the number of" in a sentence?

You can use "a cap on the number of" to indicate a limit or restriction on a specific quantity. For instance, "The city council imposed a cap on the number of taxi licenses issued".

What are some alternatives to "a cap on the number of"?

Alternatives include "a limit on the number of", "a restriction on the number of", or "a ceiling on the number of" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "a cap to the number of" instead of "a cap on the number of"?

While "a cap to" might be understood, "a cap on the number of" is the more standard and grammatically correct phrasing. It's generally advisable to use "on" in this context.

What is the difference between "a cap on the number of" and "a limit on the number of"?

The phrases "a cap on the number of" and "a limit on the number of" are largely interchangeable. However, "cap" often implies a more formal or officially imposed restriction.