a defined number of

USAGE SUMMARY

"a defined number of" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase can be used to refer to an exact or exact-seeming quantity. For example, "We surveyed a defined number of people to gain a better understanding of the issue."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

-Heart development is tightly regulated by signaling events acting upon a defined number of progenitor and differentiated cardiac cells.

Stanford University

"What you have is a defined number of cases in Florida with unique issues that will ultimately be resolved on appeal," he said.

The New York Times

It exceeded its local services and materials target by making it a condition of tenders that subcontractors must employ a defined number of apprentices and local people.

The Guardian

Standard curves were prepared by titration from a defined number of DNA copies for P. falciparum NF54, ΔPOFUT2, human and mouse controls.

Nature

And yet, the very nature of the Internet — its limitless capacity for distributing content, compared with a defined number of networks — means that the online era will almost certainly be cheaper than the broadcast age.

The New York Times - Magazine

The PSAMs capture a defined number of self-assembly-like peptide repeats within a soluble β-rich protein, making structural and energetic studies possible.

Journal of Molecular Biology

In respect of series vehicle production by means of high efficiency each assembly line normally can realize only one vehicle architecture with a defined number of vehicle derivatives.

Procedia CIRP

One of the emerging concepts focused on integrating a defined number of tests modelling in vivo-relevant and well-characterised toxicity pathways representing mechanistic endpoints.

Toxicology in Vitro

For the investigations, fine polished tubular specimens were applied which were analysed for microcracks on the specimen's surface after a defined number of cycles.

International Journal of Fatigue

This suggests an explanation as to why globular domains, as well as the repeat units in fibrous proteins, have to have a defined number of residues.

Heliyon

Basic smart contracts would exist entirely online; a user could make a donation to a blog, with the donation automatically transferring after a defined number of articles are posted.

Columbia University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a defined number of", ensure that the context clearly indicates what defines or establishes the number. For example, specify the source, method, or criteria used to determine the quantity.

Common error

Avoid using "a defined number of" when the actual number is not known or relevant. If the quantity is indefinite or approximate, consider using phrases like "several", "many", or "a few" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a defined number of" functions as a determiner phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a specific and quantified amount. Ludwig examples demonstrate its use across scientific, news, and academic contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

65%

News & Media

18%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a defined number of" is a versatile phrase used to denote a specific and quantified amount across various contexts. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used. It appears most frequently in scientific, news, and academic writing, highlighting its role in providing clarity and precision. When employing this phrase, ensure that the context clearly establishes how the number is defined to avoid vagueness and maintain effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a specific quantity of

Replaces 'defined number' with 'specific quantity' to emphasize the exactness of the amount.

a precise amount of

Substitutes 'defined number' with 'precise amount' for a focus on accuracy.

a set quantity of

Replaces 'defined number' with 'set quantity' implying a pre-determined amount.

a known quantity of

Changes 'defined number' to 'known quantity' to stress that the amount is already known.

an exact amount of

Uses 'exact amount' instead of 'defined number' to highlight precision.

a fixed number of

Replaces 'defined number' with 'fixed number' to suggest an unchangeable quantity.

a certain quantity of

Substitutes 'defined number' with 'certain quantity' to indicate a specific but potentially unspecified amount.

a given quantity of

Uses 'given quantity' instead of 'defined number' to imply that the amount is pre-established.

a particular number of

Changes 'defined number' to 'particular number' to emphasize a specific, distinct amount.

a discrete quantity of

Replaces 'defined number' with 'discrete quantity' highlighting that the amount is distinct and separate.

FAQs

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

Use "a defined number of" to indicate a specific, known quantity, such as, "The experiment requires "a defined number of" participants".

What are some alternatives to "a defined number of"?

You can use alternatives like "a specific quantity of", "a precise amount of", or "a fixed number of" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "defined number" or "specific number"?

"Defined number" implies the number is explicitly stated or determined, while "specific number" simply means it's not general. The best choice depends on the context.

Can "a defined number of" be used for both countable and uncountable nouns?

No, "a defined number of" is typically used with countable nouns. For uncountable nouns, use phrases like "a defined amount of".