a number of causes

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a number of causes" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing multiple reasons or factors that contribute to a particular outcome or situation. Example: "There are a number of causes for climate change, including greenhouse gas emissions and deforestation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Richardson attributes the decline to a number of causes.

The New York Times - Books

Experts attributed the low figures to a number of causes.

The New York Times

Wall Street analysts list a number of causes.

The New York Times

He and others listed a number of causes.

The New York Times

Livedeo reticularis can have a number of causes.

Stanford University

Such factionalism derived from a number of causes.

Encyclopedia Britannica

A noted activist, Lumley supported a number of causes.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Researchers blamed a number of causes for the creeping return of segregation.

The Guardian

The ONS said the fall could have a number of causes.

The Guardian - Money

That lack, according to research laid out in the judge's memo, has a number of causes.

The New York Times

Scientists have investigated a number of causes — allergies, hormones in milk, even stress in the womb.

The New York Times - Health

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a number of causes", ensure that you provide specific examples or categories of those causes to enhance clarity and provide context for your reader.

Common error

Don't use "a number of causes" as a placeholder without intending to elaborate. If you cannot provide specific causes, consider rephrasing to indicate uncertainty or limited knowledge.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a number of causes" functions as a noun phrase that introduces a list or discussion of multiple reasons or factors that contribute to a particular situation or outcome. Ludwig's examples show its versatility across different contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

25%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a number of causes" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that introduces multiple reasons or contributing factors to a situation. Ludwig AI analysis confirms that the phrase is appropriate for use across a range of contexts, particularly in news, encyclopedias, and academic writing. While versatile, it's important to provide specific examples of these causes to avoid vagueness. Alternatives like "several reasons" or "multiple factors" can be used depending on the nuance required. Remember to be specific and provide context to enhance clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

several reasons

Replaces "a number" with "several", offering a more concise and direct alternative.

multiple factors

Substitutes "causes" with "factors", highlighting contributing elements rather than reasons.

various reasons

Uses "various" to emphasize the diversity of the reasons.

diverse factors

Highlights the variety and difference among the contributing factors.

a multitude of reasons

Emphasizes the large quantity of reasons.

several contributing factors

More explicitly states that the factors are contributing to a specific outcome.

a range of factors

Focuses on the scope and spectrum of the factors involved.

various contributing elements

Uses "elements" to broaden the scope beyond direct causes or reasons.

a combination of factors

Emphasizes that the reasons work together to produce the outcome.

many reasons

A simpler, more direct way of expressing the same idea.

FAQs

How can I use "a number of causes" in a sentence?

You can use "a number of causes" to introduce a list or discussion of multiple reasons or factors that lead to a particular result. For example, "The decline in sales was due to "a number of causes", including increased competition and changing consumer preferences."

What are some alternatives to saying "a number of causes"?

Alternatives include "several reasons", "multiple factors", or "various reasons" depending on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it more formal to say "a number of causes" or "several reasons"?

"A number of causes" can be perceived as slightly more formal than "several reasons", but both are generally acceptable in professional and academic writing.

When is it appropriate to use "a number of causes" instead of "the cause"?

Use "a number of causes" when multiple factors contribute to an outcome. Use "the cause" when there is a single, identifiable reason or factor.