a greater number

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a greater number" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing quantities or discussing statistics to indicate that one quantity exceeds another. Example: "In the recent survey, a greater number of participants preferred option A over option B."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Yankee fans had a greater number of independents.

The New York Times

We believe that this creates a greater number of stronger relationships between people, and that it helps people get exposed to a greater number of diverse perspectives.

The Guardian - Tech

A greater number than that, says Ross, and people start to get in each other's way.

The Guardian - Arts

I don't think the left will succeed in mobilizing a greater number of people.

The New York Times

Many experts say the shortage will lead to a greater number of flu-related deaths.

The New York Times

A greater number of second and third generation descendants are British, American and Canadian citizens.

The Guardian

We are looking at having a greater number of independent doctors across our matches.

The Guardian - Sport

Rising temperatures will result in a "greater number of days with severe fire danger".

The Guardian

The US authors suggest a wider study of a greater number of jurors following this pilot.

The Guardian

It receives a greater number of privacy related complaints each year.

The Guardian

As the year moves forward, there will be a greater number of works by established authors.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing groups, ensure the context makes clear what is being compared with "a greater number". For example, "A greater number of students chose history compared to mathematics."

Common error

Avoid assuming that "a greater number" automatically implies statistical significance. Always consider factors like sample size and margin of error to determine if the difference is meaningful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a greater number" functions as a determiner phrase modifying a noun, indicating a quantity larger than another. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a grammatically sound way to express a numerical comparison.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

41%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a greater number" is a versatile phrase used to express that one quantity is larger than another. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across various domains. While alternatives like "more numerous" and "a larger quantity" exist, "a greater number" provides a specific focus on the numerical comparison. As seen in Ludwig's examples, this phrase is commonly found in news, scientific, and formal writing, emphasizing the importance of clarity and precision in quantitative statements.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

more numerous

This alternative uses a more formal adjective to convey the same meaning.

a larger quantity

This option focuses on the amount or volume rather than a count.

a higher proportion

This phrase emphasizes the relative size of one group compared to another.

an increased quantity

This version highlights the fact that something grew in quantity

a more substantial amount

This phrase stresses the significance or importance of the quantity.

more profuse

This alternative suggests abundance and richness.

a majority

This indicates that the quantity is over 50 percent

a bulk

This alternative emphasizes the considerable size of the quantity.

more abundant

This option highlights plentifulness, but not the precise numerical assessment

a proliferation of

This option specifically highlights a rapid increase in number.

FAQs

How do I use "a greater number" in a sentence?

Use "a greater number" to indicate that one quantity or amount is larger than another. For example, "A greater number of people attended the conference this year than last year."

What are some alternatives to saying "a greater number"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "more numerous", "a larger quantity", or "a higher proportion" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it always better to use "a greater number" over "more"?

Not necessarily. "More" is often simpler and more direct. Use "a greater number" when you want to emphasize the numerical aspect or when comparing countable items. For example, saying "more people" is generally better than "a greater number of people" in casual conversation.

How does "a greater number" differ from "the majority"?

"A greater number" simply indicates a larger quantity, while "the majority" implies that more than half of the group or sample is being referred to. A greater number may be 51 out of 100, whereas something described as the majority must be over 50% of the whole.