a limited number

USAGE SUMMARY

"a limited number" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in various ways, depending on the context. For example: "Due to space restrictions, we can only accept a limited number of participants for the workshop."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"We have a limited number of resources".

The New York Times - Health

They want a limited number of points.

The Guardian - Opinion

Marbach has a limited number of rooms.

The New York Times - Travel

Only a limited number of people knew about it".

The New York Times

We have a limited number of places available for readers.

The Guardian

"There's a limited number of possibilities," one official said.

The New York Times

There are a limited number of possible sexual acts.

The Guardian - Books

"I work a limited number of vines," he says.

The Guardian - Travel

Rock'n'roll was built on a limited number of chords, and a limited number of ways of deploying them.

The Guardian - Music

A limited number of competitor moves are likely.

Harvard Business Review

There will also be a limited number of radio spots.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a limited number" to describe resources, clarify the implications of this limitation. For example, instead of saying "We have a limited number of tickets", specify "We have a limited number of tickets, so book early to avoid disappointment."

Common error

Avoid using "a limited number" when the quantity is not actually restricted. Overusing the phrase can dilute its meaning. Be precise with your quantities where appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a limited number" functions as a determiner phrase, specifically quantifying a noun in a restrictive manner. It indicates that the quantity of something is not abundant or unlimited, but rather restricted. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its use in various contexts, such as limiting resources or available spaces.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Academia

38%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a limited number" is a common and grammatically correct way to express that the quantity of something is restricted. According to Ludwig, it functions as a determiner phrase and is used in neutral to professional contexts, including news, academia, and business. To avoid ambiguity, clarify the implications of the limitation and avoid overuse. Related phrases include "only a few" and "a small number". Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

only a few

A more direct and informal way of expressing a small quantity.

a restricted amount

Focuses on the constraint placed on the amount available.

a small quantity

Emphasizes the size of the quantity rather than the limitation.

a reduced number

Emphasizes a decrease from a previous or expected amount.

a finite quantity

Highlights that the quantity is not infinite but has an upper bound.

a scarce quantity

Highlights the difficulty in obtaining the quantity due to its rarity.

a select few

Indicates that only specific individuals or items are included.

a handful

Suggests a quantity small enough to be held in one hand.

a minimum amount

Indicates the smallest acceptable or required quantity.

a trickle

Suggests a very small and slow flow or supply.

FAQs

How can I use "a limited number" in a sentence?

You can use "a limited number" to indicate a restricted quantity of something, as in, "Only "a limited number" of seats are available for the event."

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

Alternatives include "only a few", "a small number", or "a restricted amount" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "a limited numbers" instead of "a limited number"?

No, the correct phrase is "a limited number". The word "number" should be singular when preceded by the article "a".

What is the difference between "a limited number" and "the limited number"?

"A limited number" refers to an unspecified restricted quantity, while "the limited number" refers to a specific, previously identified restricted quantity.