a comparable number

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a comparable number" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to compare two similar numbers or amounts. For example: "This year, we had four times as many visitors as last year; however, our profits were only a comparable number."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

They offered a comparable number of lots.

The Economist

So we don't have a comparable number".

The New York Times

This season, the budget of $6.3 million will cover a comparable number of shows.

The New York Times

Russia will surely enact reciprocal measures, expelling a comparable number of U.S. and European diplomats.

The New Yorker

Beyond the Syrian gates, a comparable number of civilians lived at a transit camp under wretched conditions.

The New Yorker

If all the Big Four are involved in a comparable number of scandals, none of them suffers relative reputational loss.

Columbia University

The only other plant family with a comparable number of species is Orchidaceae, the orchid family, in the order Asparagales.

Britannica

However, a comparable number of studies do not support this observation.

Atherosclerosis

The only recall of a comparable number of tires, another Firestone recall in 1978, followed far more complaints to regulators -- 14,000 -- but fewer deaths -- 41.

The New York Times

Only Tatiana Maslany, playing multiple roles on Orphan Black, must have racked up a comparable number of minutes on-screen per episode.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Worms have a comparable number of 6.

BMC Genomics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a comparable number", ensure that the basis for comparison is clear to avoid ambiguity. Specify the attributes being compared to provide context.

Common error

Avoid using "a comparable number" when the actual numbers differ significantly. If the difference is substantial, consider using terms like "a significantly different number" or "a smaller number" for accuracy.

Linguistic Context

Grammatically, "a comparable number" functions as a determiner phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a quantity that is similar or equivalent to another. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

39%

News & Media

37%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a comparable number" is a grammatically sound and widely used expression for indicating that two quantities are similar. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability across various contexts. It is prevalent in scientific literature, news media, and academic writing, making it suitable for formal and informal communication. When using this phrase, ensure that the basis for comparison is clear and that the quantities being compared are indeed similar to avoid misleading your audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a similar quantity

Emphasizes the likeness in amount rather than just the numerical aspect. It focuses on the extent or measurement.

a like amount

Highlights the equivalence in the total or sum of something. It's more concise and focuses on the final quantity.

an equivalent figure

Specifically refers to numerical data or statistics, suggesting that the numbers are interchangeable or have the same value.

a parallel figure

Suggests the figure has a similar trend, course, or direction to the original, rather than being exactly the same.

a corresponding value

Indicates a direct relationship or match between two values, where one implies the other.

a matching quantity

Implies an exact match in number or amount, suggesting the two quantities are identical.

a proportionate share

Indicates that the amount is in direct proportion to something else, maintaining a consistent ratio.

a related amount

A related amount has some connection or relevance to the primary amount, but the quantities may not be equal.

a near number

A number that is proximate or close to another number, without being necessarily comparable in a broader sense.

an approximate value

An estimation of the real value but does not guarantee it will be close, or comparable.

FAQs

How do I use "a comparable number" in a sentence?

Use "a comparable number" to indicate that two quantities or amounts are similar in size or magnitude. For instance, "While sales increased slightly, marketing expenses remained at "a comparable number" to last year".

What are some synonyms for "a comparable number"?

Alternatives to "a comparable number" include "a similar amount", "a like quantity", or "an equivalent figure". The choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it correct to say "a comparable number of" followed by a singular noun?

No, "a comparable number of" should be followed by a plural noun. For example, "a comparable number of students", not "a comparable number of student."

How does "a comparable number" differ from "a considerable number"?

"A comparable number" implies similarity in quantity, while "a considerable number" indicates a large or significant quantity. They aren't interchangeable; use "a considerable number" when emphasizing magnitude rather than comparison.