a fixed quantity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a fixed quantity" is correct and can be used in written English.
This phrase is typically used to describe an amount that is not changing or that is set in advance. For example, "The store sold a fixed quantity of 200 items each day."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Synthetic standard solutions of 40 mg L−1 with a fixed quantity of adsorbent, fixed time, and fixed temperature were used.

Applied Water Science

In the present paper in the gasifier operation, there is a fixed quantity of char that is combusted to gasify a fixed amount of wood, and the gasifier does not operate in a steady state manner.

Fuel Processing Technology

And taxpayers will subsidise a fixed quantity of electricity and water for every household.

The Economist

This pump delivers a fixed quantity of water with each cycle of a piston or rotor.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Gold standard, monetary system in which the standard unit of currency is a fixed quantity of gold or is kept at the value of a fixed quantity of gold.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The provision, known as take-or-pay, requires that they pay for a fixed quantity of gas, regardless of whether they use it.

The New York Times

There is no such thing as a fixed quantity of nurses to be "drained" from the Philippines or Africa, like petroleum from the ground.

The New York Times

A fixed quantity of air is drawn through a filter paper and the resulting smudge compared against a chart which shows the dirt concentration per cubic mile for smudges of similar densities.

The New Yorker

This is a classic lump-of-labour fallacy (the idea that there is a fixed quantity of work and that if you take a job it is at my expense).

The Economist

A recent piece accused conservatives of embracing the "lump of labour fallacy", the mistaken claim that there is a fixed quantity of work which governments must strive to allocate equitably.

The Economist

For some, this is a fixed quantity, but in a dynamic world where people are increasingly shifting careers, working longer or pursuing "encore" careers, human capital is a moving target.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a fixed quantity", ensure the context clearly defines what is being measured (e.g., volume, mass, number).

Common error

Avoid using "a fixed quantity" when the amount is actually subject to change based on external factors. For instance, if a substance's volume varies with temperature, it's more accurate to describe its initial state rather than assuming a constant amount.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a fixed quantity" functions primarily as a noun phrase acting as a determiner modifying another noun. It indicates a specific, unchanging amount of something, as demonstrated by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

60%

News & Media

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a fixed quantity" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to denote an unchanging amount. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and prevalence across diverse contexts. It's frequently found in scientific and technical writing, serving to ensure precision and clarity. Alternative phrases, like "a constant amount" or "a set amount", can be used depending on the nuances you want to convey. Ensure you use "a fixed quantity" appropriately when the amount is truly constant, avoiding its use when the amount is subject to change. The phrase enjoys very common usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a constant amount

Replaces 'fixed' with 'constant' to emphasize the unchanging nature of the quantity.

a set amount

Substitutes 'fixed' with 'set' to highlight that the quantity has been predetermined.

a defined quantity

Uses 'defined' instead of 'fixed' to indicate that the quantity is clearly specified.

a predetermined amount

Replaces 'fixed' with 'predetermined' to emphasize that the quantity was decided in advance.

a specific quantity

Uses 'specific' instead of 'fixed' to highlight the precise nature of the amount.

a given quantity

Uses 'given' instead of 'fixed' to suggest that the amount is pre-existing or assumed.

an established quantity

Emphasizes the idea that the quantity is already known and agreed upon.

a limited quantity

Focuses on the aspect that the amount is not infinite or unrestricted.

a constant measure

Shifts from 'quantity' to 'measure', emphasizing the unchanging value.

an unvarying amount

Highlights the absence of change in the quantity.

FAQs

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

You can use "a fixed quantity" to describe a specific amount of something that doesn't change. For example, "The experiment required "a fixed quantity" of the solution."

What is a good alternative to "a fixed quantity"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "a constant amount", "a set amount", or "a defined quantity".

Is it appropriate to use "a fixed quantity" in formal writing?

Yes, "a fixed quantity" is suitable for formal writing, especially in scientific or technical contexts where precision is important. However, ensure the phrase aligns with the overall tone and style of your writing.

What's the difference between "a fixed quantity" and "a variable quantity"?

"A fixed quantity" refers to an amount that remains constant, while "a variable quantity" refers to an amount that can change or fluctuate. Therefore it is important to use the phrase in a correct context.