a fixed set of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a fixed set of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a specific, unchanging collection of items, rules, or parameters. Example: "The experiment requires a fixed set of variables to ensure consistent results."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Implementing a fixed set of partial factors or a fixed quantile will not produce designs with uniform reliability indices.

Structural Safety

Value functions are defined over a fixed set of outcomes.

Artificial Intelligence

There is a fixed set of host->device commands with a fixed binary packet format.

University of California, Berkeley

A fixed set of response codes is a common feature of a message protocol.

University of California, Berkeley

Smoothly operating structures governed by a fixed set of rules help them to protect their wealth".

The Guardian

"They think language should be used by a fixed set of rules -- always their rules".

The New York Times - Tech

Generally, developers are a lot of old white men with a fixed set of ideas.

The New York Times

Then games developed and matured, settling into a fixed set of genres.

The Guardian - Tech

The Parole Board operates according to a fixed set of laws.

The New Yorker

As they mature, markets acquire a fixed set of suppliers, competitors, distributors, and customers.

Harvard Business Review

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

It's one of my pet peeves-a fixed set of fields are a disaster.

Journal of Cheminformatics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a fixed set of", ensure that the context clearly defines the criteria for inclusion in the set. This avoids ambiguity and strengthens the precision of your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "a fixed set of" when the elements within the group are subject to change or variation. Opt for terms like "a range of" or "a variety of" to indicate flexibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a fixed set of" functions as a determiner phrase. It modifies a noun by specifying that the noun refers to a particular collection or group that is defined and unchangeable, as evidenced by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

35%

Academia

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a fixed set of" is a versatile phrase that accurately describes an unchanging collection of items. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used across various domains including science, news, and academia. To maximize clarity and precision, specify the criteria for inclusion when using this term. Avoid using it when the elements are subject to change; otherwise, opt for alternatives like "a range of" or "a variety of". Overall, "a fixed set of" is a valuable tool for precise and unambiguous communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a predetermined set of

Emphasizes that the set was decided in advance.

a defined set of

Highlights that the set has clear boundaries and contents.

a specific set of

Indicates a particular, well-defined group.

a limited set of

Focuses on the restricted number of items in the set.

a given set of

Implies that the set is already known or provided.

an established set of

Suggests that the set is recognized and accepted.

a prescribed set of

Implies the set is officially required or recommended.

a constant set of

Stresses the unchanging nature of the set over time.

a stable set of

Focuses on the lack of change or variability within the set.

a finite set of

Highlights that the number of elements in the set is countable and not infinite.

FAQs

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

Use "a fixed set of" to describe a collection of items, rules, or parameters that are specific and unchanging. For example, "The experiment requires "a fixed set of variables" to ensure consistent results."

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

You can use alternatives like "a predetermined set of", "a defined set of", or "a specific set of" depending on the context.

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

Yes, "a fixed set of" is suitable for formal writing as it provides clarity and precision. However, consider the specific context and whether a more formal alternative, like "an established set of", might be more appropriate.

What is the difference between "a fixed set of" and "a variable set of"?

"A fixed set of" indicates that the elements are constant and unchanging, while "a variable set of" suggests that the elements can change or vary over time. Choose the phrase that accurately reflects the stability of the elements you are describing.