a half of us

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a half of us" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a portion or fraction of a group of people. Example: "During the meeting, a half of us agreed on the proposed changes to the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Nearly a half of us die of cancer (38% of females, 45% of males).

The Guardian

A month later, the three and a half of us checked into Safety Harbor.

The New York Times - Travel

If you are a natural introvert – and a third to a half of us are – you will identify with some of Susan Cain's most awkward childhood moments and have several more of your own.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

here are two and a half of us working in this area.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

For the short time we are in the lift together, there is some strange sort of camaraderie between the four-and-a-half of us, like we're all part of a secret club, which the other 300 million Americans don't know about yet.

Huffington Post

Maybe you can get into his Sportswriting II class: "Satire without resorting to cheap shots". We realize that you big city reporters look down your word processors at us insignificant Valleyites, but there's a million-and-a-half of us out here, and we don't think so much of your side of the hill either.

Los Angeles Times

The first footage has been revealed of the young Han Solo standalone movie in the Star Wars series; what can the minute and a half of film tell us?

The Guardian - Film

We've faced a year and a half of assaults on us.

Huffington Post

Now that nearly one and a half billion of us use social media, according to eMarketer, the most innovative companies are looking to use the social customer experience to gain a competitive advantage.

BBC

Half of its were sure it was a goal, half of us hoped it just might have been, and all the Germans, whatever they had seen, roared in disbelief.

The New Yorker

We've had a year and a half of frustration for all of us, including Mike.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a half of us", ensure the context clearly defines the 'us' being referred to. For example, specify "a half of us at the meeting" for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "a half of us" when "half of us" is more concise and equally correct. "Half of us" is generally preferred unless emphasizing the fraction.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a half of us" functions as a quantifying phrase, indicating that 50% of a group is being referred to. This can be used to specify a portion of a group's actions, opinions, or characteristics. Ludwig AI confirms the correctness of the usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a half of us" is grammatically correct and functions as a quantifying phrase. While Ludwig AI confirms it's usable, it's less common and sometimes less preferred than the more concise "half of us". Its primary purpose is to specify that 50% of a group is being referenced, as shown in examples from news and media sources. When choosing between "a half of us" and "half of us", consider the context and desired emphasis, as clarity and conciseness are key.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

half of our group

Replaces "us" with a more specific term, emphasizing the group context.

a portion of us

Substitutes "half" with "portion", indicating a less precise quantity.

some of us

Replaces "a half" with "some", indicating an indefinite quantity.

part of us

Similar to "some of us", but slightly more formal.

a percentage of us

More precise, suggesting a calculable proportion.

a fraction of us

Similar to "a percentage of us" but less numerically specific.

a share of us

Implies a portion received or allocated among the group.

a segment of us

Suggests a specific, identifiable part of the group.

a division of us

Implies a formal or structured split within the group.

a number of us

Indicates an unspecified but potentially significant subset.

FAQs

Is it better to use "a half of us" or "half of us"?

While both phrases are grammatically correct, "half of us" is generally preferred for its conciseness. "A half of us" is acceptable but can sometimes sound less natural.

What does "a half of us" mean?

It means one part of two of a particular group to which the speaker belongs. It's a way of indicating that a portion of the group, specifically 50%, is being discussed or considered.

Can I use "a half of us" in formal writing?

Yes, "a half of us" can be used in formal writing, but consider whether the more concise "half of us" would be a better fit for the tone and style of your document.

What are some alternatives to "a half of us"?

Alternatives include "some of us", "part of us", or "a portion of us". The best choice depends on the specific context and the level of precision you want to convey.