a definite quantity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a definite quantity" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific, measurable amount of something in various contexts, such as mathematics, science, or economics. Example: "In order to complete the experiment, we need to measure a definite quantity of the chemical solution."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Note that for a fixed iso-range ring, the elevation angle is a definite quantity.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

Mixture takes place when such qualities take on a definite quantity (poson) or due measure (metrion) that that delimits their variation.

SEP

The value of (eta _{d}) is assumed to be small, so that we may set its value as (eta _{d}=varepsilon ^{frac{1}{4}} eta ), with (eta ) is a definite quantity.

Journal of Theoretical and Applied Physics

The porosity of dried SPHC particles was determined from pore volume and bulk volume, by immersing a definite quantity of SPHC particles in hexane overnight.

BioMed Research International

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

After studying the phenomenon of electrolysis in 1874, Irish physicist George Johnstone Stoney suggested that there existed a "single definite quantity of electricity", the charge of a monovalent ion.

Wikipedia

Although the loss factor is a positive definite quantity, the first variation yields control input that maximizes the factor.

Journal of Sound and Vibration

Determination of the very small quantities of radium contained in a few grams of a mineral, or a few litres of mineral water, is made by measuring the quantity of radon it produces in a definite amount of time.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Jevons distinguishes between a 'mean' (the approximation of a definite existing quantity) and an 'average' or 'fictitious mean' (an arithmetical average).

SEP

The dip-coating of the catalyst on the SiC foam was done by preparing slurry of definite quantity of catalyst powder and dipping the foam into that for a particular time period in the dip-coater.

Applied Petrochemical Research

Whereas the definite sum 3+4 evaluates to the definite quantity 7, the indefinite sum x+y has no definite value, yet we can still say that it is always equal to y+x, or to x²−y² if and only if x is either −y or y+1.

SEP

Specific oxygen uptake rate (SOUR) measures the rate of dissolved oxygen (DO) consumption by definite quantity of activated sludge which represents the activity of activated sludge notably in the presence of organic substrate (Yoong et al. 2000; Archibald et al. 2001).

Applied Water Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a definite quantity", ensure the context provides the units of measurement or scale to avoid ambiguity. For example, specify "a definite quantity of 10 grams" rather than just "a definite quantity".

Common error

Avoid stating "a definite quantity" without specifying the units. Without the units, the phrase becomes vague and lacks practical meaning. Always clarify what is being measured and in what units.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a definite quantity" functions as a determiner phrase, modifying a noun to specify a particular amount. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s grammatically correct. For instance, in the sentence "The porosity of dried SPHC particles was determined from pore volume and bulk volume, by immersing a definite quantity of SPHC particles in hexane overnight", it specifies how much of the SPHC particles were used.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

70%

News & Media

15%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a definite quantity" serves to specify a measurable amount, making it most appropriate for contexts where precision is important. As affirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used. While frequently encountered in scientific and technical writing, it also appears in news and encyclopedic contexts. For enhanced clarity, ensure that the units of measurement are included when using this phrase. Alternatives like "a specific amount" or "a precise quantity" can be used depending on the context. This analysis provides a comprehensive understanding of the phrase's usage, alternatives, and potential pitfalls.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a specific amount

Focuses on the particularity of the quantity rather than its precision.

a precise amount

Emphasizes the accuracy and exactness of the quantity.

an exact quantity

Similar to 'precise amount', stressing accuracy.

a fixed quantity

Highlights the unchanging nature of the quantity.

a set quantity

Suggests the quantity has been pre-determined or established.

a determined quantity

Indicates the quantity has been calculated or decided upon.

a measurable amount

Focuses on the ability to measure the quantity.

a known quantity

Highlights that the amount is already established or recognized.

a quantifiable amount

Emphasizes that the amount can be expressed numerically.

a discrete amount

Implies a separate and distinct quantity.

FAQs

How can I use "a definite quantity" in a sentence?

You can use "a definite quantity" to specify a precise or measurable amount of something, for example: "The experiment requires "a definite quantity" of the reagent." or "We need to measure "a definite quantity" of water for the recipe."

What are some alternatives to saying "a definite quantity"?

Alternatives include "a specific amount", "a precise amount", or "a fixed quantity". The best choice depends on the context.

Is it better to say "a definite quantity" or "a certain quantity"?

While both phrases imply a specific amount, "a definite quantity" emphasizes measurability and precision. "A certain quantity" is more general and can imply an amount that is known but not necessarily precisely measured.

What does "a definite quantity" mean?

"A definite quantity" refers to a specific and measurable amount of something. It implies that the amount is known or can be determined with accuracy.