a number of computer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a number of computer" is not correct in written English.
It should be "a number of computers" to refer to multiple computers. Example: "A number of computers were donated to the school to enhance the students' learning experience."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Three years ago, a number of computer manufacturers recalled laptops with batteries from Sony after reports of fires and explosions.

The New York Times - Tech

A number of computer security experts said the research results were an indication that assertions of robust computer security should be regarded with caution.

The New York Times - Tech

Investigators also took two laptop computers, a number of computer disks, two credit cards and some shotgun shells from the apartment, the official said.

The New York Times

A number of computer security experts noted that the rapid spread of the program was made easier by the fact that most PC's run the same software.

The New York Times

Smith tells about a number of computer devices used to gather information about individuals and discusses his concern about the invasion of privacy.

The New Yorker

A number of computer books, all in the trademark bright yellow and black cover, soon followed, and Dummies became synonymous with straightforward and humourous texts.

Encyclopedia Britannica

However, a number of computer scientists, led by Fernando Esponda of Yale University, are taking Hempel's notion as the germ of an eminently practical scheme.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

We tested the level of paranoia among the general public by asking volunteers to take a virtual reality tube train ride, during which they shared a carriage with a number of computer-generated "avatars".

The Guardian

In a bid to diversify its economic base, Salem attracted a number of computer-related manufacturing plants in the 1990s.

Forbes

In recent years a number of computer-guided automatic or semi-automatic segmentation and registration methods have been proposed.

Artificial Intelligence in Medicine

Because of improvements in computer technology, a number of computer-assisted techniques have been developed for making radiographic measurements.

UHMWPE Biomaterials Handbook Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene in Total Joint Replacement and Medical Devices

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Always use the plural form "computers" after "a number of" to ensure grammatical correctness. For example, "A number of computers were upgraded."

Common error

Avoid using a singular noun after "a number of". The phrase "a number of" indicates more than one, so always use the plural form of the noun. Using "a number of computer" is grammatically incorrect.

Linguistic Context

The phrase is intended to denote a quantity of computers. However, it is grammatically incorrect as it uses the singular form "computer" instead of the plural "computers". This affects the grammatical correctness of the sentence.Ludwig AI highlights the proper plural form.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

35%

News & Media

35%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a number of computer" is frequently found across various sources, including news media, science, and encyclopedias. However, Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically incorrect; the correct form is "a number of computers". Despite its common usage, adhering to proper grammar is essential for clear and professional communication. Alternatives such as "several computers", "many computers", and "numerous computers" can be used to maintain grammatical accuracy while conveying the intended meaning. Always ensure noun-verb agreement and use plural forms after "a number of" to avoid errors. The intended purpose of this phrase is to show that there is more than one computer involved in the sentence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

multiple computers

Directly states that there are more than one computer.

several computers

Emphasizes a small to moderate quantity of computers, replacing "a number of" with a more direct quantifier.

many computers

Indicates a large quantity of computers, offering a more general alternative to "a number of".

a multitude of computers

Suggests a very large number of computers, adding emphasis to the quantity.

numerous computers

Similar to 'many', but with a slightly more formal tone.

a quantity of computers

Highlights the existence of a specific amount of computers, often used in more technical contexts.

various computers

Implies different types or models of computers, in addition to indicating more than one.

a few computers

Specifies a small number of computers, offering a more precise quantifier.

a host of computers

Suggests a large and impressive collection of computers.

a cluster of computers

Indicates a group of computers working together, often in a networked environment.

FAQs

How do I properly use "a number of computers" in a sentence?

Ensure the verb agrees with the plural noun "computers". For example, "A number of computers were updated," not "a number of computers was".

What's the difference between "a number of computers" and "the number of computers"?

"A number of computers" implies multiple computers and takes a plural verb. "The number of computers" refers to a specific quantity and typically takes a singular verb. For instance, "The number of computers is increasing."

Is "a number of computer" grammatically correct?

No, "a number of computer" is grammatically incorrect. The correct phrase is "a number of computers", using the plural form of the noun.

What can I say instead of "a number of computers"?

You can use alternatives like "several computers", "many computers", or "numerous computers" depending on the context.