a finite set of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a finite set of" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a specific, limited collection of items or elements in various contexts, such as mathematics, computer science, or general discussions. Example: "In our study, we analyzed a finite set of data points to draw our conclusions."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Of a finite set of factors.

The Guardian - Books

Well, he's merely showing you a finite set of swans.

The New York Times

Either way, a finite set of primes can always be augmented.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But even in the structure of the music, a finite set of options holds steady.

The New York Times - Arts

In particular, the Peano axioms enable an infinite set to be generated by a finite set of symbols and rules.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It consists of a finite set of characters, such as uppercase and lowercase letters, digits, and various punctuation marks.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Dialog doesn't draw from a finite set of outcomes.

TechCrunch

Assume that there is a finite set of voters V and a finite set of candidates X.

SEP

It was intended as a finite set of tracks, arranged to deliver a cohesive narrative.

TechCrunch

A security policy, P is a finite set of norms.

EURASIP Journal on Information Security

(ii) P is a finite set of places.

European Transport Research Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a finite set of", ensure the context clearly indicates what the elements of the set are and why it is important that the set is finite. For example, "a finite set of options" is clear if the options have been previously defined or are immediately apparent.

Common error

Avoid using "a finite set of" when the set's finiteness is not relevant or is already implied. For instance, avoid stating "a finite set of students attended the lecture" if all possible students constitute a finite group by definition. Otherwise, your writing might become needlessly verbose.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a finite set of" functions as a determiner phrase specifying a limited and countable collection of items. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct. It is often used to set boundaries or constraints in discussions, arguments, or models.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

52%

News & Media

18%

Encyclopedias

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a finite set of" is a versatile phrase used to denote a limited and countable collection of items. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. It is commonly found in scientific, news and media, and encyclopedia contexts, serving the purpose of defining scope and providing clarity in discussions and analyses. When using this phrase, ensure the finiteness is relevant and justified. Consider alternatives such as ""a limited number of"" or ""a bounded collection of"" for nuanced expressions. The most authoritative sources for this phrase include Encyclopedia Britannica, The New York Times, and TechCrunch, among others.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a limited number of

This alternative focuses on the numerical constraint of the set.

a bounded collection of

This phrase emphasizes the upper limit or boundary of the collection.

a restricted group of

This alternative highlights the constrained nature of the group.

a discrete set of

This term stresses the individually separate and distinct elements within the set.

a countable collection of

This option underscores the ability to count or enumerate the items in the collection.

a fixed set of

This phrase highlights the unchangeable and predetermined nature of the set.

a defined set of

This highlights that the boundaries and contents of the set are clearly established.

a specific number of

This focuses on the exact quantity, indicating a precise count.

a terminable set of

This suggests the set has a clear endpoint and can be fully completed.

a quantifiable group of

The phrase stresses the group can be assessed or measured numerically.

FAQs

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

You can use "a finite set of" to describe a collection of items with a limited, countable number of elements. For example, "The algorithm considers "a finite set of" possible solutions".

What are some alternatives to "a finite set of"?

Alternatives include "a limited number of", "a bounded collection of", or "a restricted group of", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to say "a finite set of elements" when "set" already implies finiteness?

While the term "set" in mathematics often implies a well-defined collection, using ""a finite set of"" can provide emphasis or clarity, particularly in contexts where the set might otherwise be assumed to be infinite or unbounded.

What's the difference between ""a finite set of"" and "a limited set of"?

While similar, ""a finite set of"" specifies that the number of elements is countable and not infinite. "a limited set of" simply indicates that the quantity is not extensive, without necessarily implying it's countable.