a finite number of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a finite number of" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a limited quantity of something that is countable, such as an item or a concept. For example, "This question can be answered with a finite number of solutions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"We have a finite number of troops.

The New York Times

"There are a finite number of jobs.. . .

The Washington Post

There are a finite number of junior doctors.

The Guardian

A finite number of rule-driven, repetitive steps.

The Guardian - Opinion

The world has a finite number of Tyrannosaurs rexes.

The Guardian

Other equations have a finite number of rational solutions.

Princeton University

Consider a situation where a finite number of players (individuals, companies, countries) each has a finite number of possible strategies.

University of California, Berkeley

"There are a finite number of babies each year".

The New York Times

Our own universe has a finite number of jobs, a finite number of educational places and a requirement by the inhabitants to have shelter and food.

The Guardian

Brouwer, Nash demonstrated that such an equilibrium exists in any game with a finite number of players and a finite number of moves to choose from.

The New Yorker

"There is a finite number of good marathons in anyone," Radcliffe said.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a finite number of", ensure the context clearly indicates what the limited quantity refers to. For example, "There are a finite number of resources available for this project."

Common error

Avoid using "a finite number of" when you simply mean a small amount. "Finite" implies a limit that can be counted, not just a small quantity. For example, using "a limited quantity of" might be better when the exact count isn't relevant.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a finite number of" functions as a determiner phrase, specifically limiting or quantifying a noun. It indicates that the quantity being described is not infinite but rather has a defined and countable limit. Ludwig AI confirms the correctness and usability of this phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Academia

28%

Science

23%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a finite number of" is a grammatically sound and frequently used determiner phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It serves to specify that a quantity is limited and countable, and it appears across various registers, from academic writing to news reporting. While it's important to ensure you are using the phrase in the correct context, it is unlikely that a person will misunderstand you as a result of using the expression. While alternatives like "a limited quantity of" and ""a fixed number of"" exist, the overall usage and application of "a finite number of" are well-established and versatile.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a limited quantity of

Focuses on the restriction in amount rather than the countability.

a restricted amount of

Similar to limited quantity, emphasizing the restriction.

a fixed number of

Highlights the immutability of the quantity.

a specific quantity of

Indicates a particular amount, often known.

a definite quantity of

Similar to 'specific quantity' but with less emphasis on knowledge of the amount

a countable number of

Emphasizes the ability to count the items, but still implying a limitation.

a set number of

Highlights the pre-determined aspect of the count.

a prescribed number of

Focuses on the fact that the quantity is officially or formally set.

a discrete number of

Highlights that all values are distinct and separated.

a terminable number of

Emphasizes the number can reach to its end.

FAQs

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

Use "a finite number of" to describe a limited and countable quantity. For example, "There are "only a finite number of" attempts allowed" or "The museum displays "a finite number of" artifacts from that era".

What is a good alternative to "a finite number of"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "a limited number of", "a fixed number of", or "a restricted number of". The best choice depends on whether you want to emphasize the limitation, the fixed nature, or the restriction.

Is it correct to say "a finite amount of" instead of "a finite number of"?

While "a finite amount of" can be used, "a finite number of" is typically used when referring to countable items. "Amount" is generally used for non-countable quantities. Therefore, if you're referring to something you can count, "a finite number of" is more appropriate.

What's the difference between "a finite number of" and "an infinite number of"?

"A finite number of" indicates a limited, countable quantity, while "an infinite number of" indicates a quantity without any limit. For example, there are "a finite number of" planets in our solar system, but theoretically, there could be "an infinite number of" universes.