a number of errors

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a number of errors" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to multiple mistakes or inaccuracies in a document, report, or any other context where errors are present. Example: "After reviewing the manuscript, I found a number of errors that need to be corrected before publication."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

It was only after his death at 73 that a number of errors were discovered.

The Guardian - Money

This article was amended on 14 September 2011 to correct a number of errors.

The Guardian

The Times article contained a number of errors and was marred by journalistic lapses.

The New York Times

More's the pity then that a number of errors appear in dates and identification of cars.

The New York Times

The After Action Report contained a number of errors, according to McGraw.

The New Yorker

We also made a number of errors and it will all keep us grounded.

The Guardian - Sport

Hewitt, the defending champion, had nine aces but made a number of errors and was never in the match.

The New York Times - Sports

Despite its system of checks and balances, a number of errors, plagiarism and even outright fraud have slipped through it.

The New York Times - Health

The Roosters rallied late in the first half, after making a number of errors in the first 30 minutes.

The Guardian - Sport

This article was amended on 1 July 2014 to correct a number of errors in an earlier version.

The Guardian

Mr. Kirk has admitted to a number of errors and discrepancies related to his military service.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a number of errors", be specific about the nature and impact of those errors to provide context for your audience. For example, instead of saying "the report contained a number of errors", specify "the report contained a number of calculation errors that affected the final results".

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the impact of "a number of errors" if they are minor or inconsequential. Ensure the severity of the errors warrants the attention they receive to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a number of errors" functions as a determiner phrase quantifying the noun "errors". It specifies that there are multiple mistakes or inaccuracies present. Ludwig AI examples show its broad applicability across diverse texts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase “a number of errors” is a common and grammatically correct way to indicate the presence of multiple mistakes or inaccuracies. Ludwig AI confirms its broad usage across various sources, including news, science, and encyclopedias. While versatile, you can enhance clarity by specifying the type and impact of these errors. Remember to avoid exaggerating their significance and consider alternatives like "several mistakes" or "multiple inaccuracies" to suit different contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

many mistakes

This is a simpler and more direct alternative to the original phrase.

several mistakes

This alternative uses a simpler vocabulary, replacing "a number of" with "several" and "errors" with "mistakes".

several faults

A direct synonym replacement, focusing on the presence of imperfections.

various inaccuracies

This emphasizes the lack of precision rather than outright mistakes, softening the tone.

multiple flaws

This term implies more fundamental problems than simple errors.

numerous defects

This alternative suggests inherent faults or shortcomings.

multiple discrepancies

Focuses on inconsistencies or contradictions rather than outright errors.

a series of blunders

This option emphasizes the clumsiness or carelessness of the errors.

innumerable lapses

This emphasizes the frequency and oversight in making mistakes.

various slip-ups

An informal term for minor mistakes or oversights.

FAQs

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

You can use "a number of errors" to indicate that there are multiple mistakes or inaccuracies. For example, "The audit revealed "a number of errors" in the financial statements".

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

You can use alternatives like "several mistakes", "multiple inaccuracies", or "various discrepancies" depending on the specific context and the type of errors you are referring to. For example, you can use "several mistakes" if you want to soften the language.

Which is correct, "a number of errors" or "an amount of errors"?

"A number of errors" is correct because "number" is used for countable items (errors), while "amount" is used for uncountable quantities. Therefore, "a number of errors" is the grammatically correct choice.

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

"A number of errors" simply indicates multiple mistakes, while "a string of errors" suggests a sequence or series of errors occurring one after another. The term "a string of errors" implies a pattern or a continuous sequence.