a number of representations

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a number of representations" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to multiple forms or depictions of something, often in contexts like art, data, or theoretical models. Example: "The study included a number of representations of the data to illustrate the findings more clearly."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

He received a reply on Friday, in which new libraries minister Rob Wilson said the department had received "a number of representations concerning the revisions to Lancashire's library service provision".

The Guardian - Books

Adrian Bailey, chair of the business select committee, said: "We have had a number of representations from Royal Mail, and others, warning that TNT can cherry-pick profitable routes because they don't have a universal service obligation.

The Guardian - Business

The family's local MP, Ian Blackford, made a number of representations to the Westminster government on the Brains' behalf over the summer, and tweeted his delight at the decision.

The Guardian

This provides a system within which to learn from a number of representations in which the situatedness of knowledge can be discerned and learned.

Knowledge-Based Systems

A number of representations of the world in terms of a few simple constituents that were considered fundamental emerged: Parmenides' static substance, Heraclitus' flux of becoming, Empedocles' four elements, Democritus' atoms, or Pythagoras' numbers, Plato's forms, and Aristotle's categories.

SEP

This unequal relationship, and the dependency of ARV users on nurses, gives rise to a number of representations of a 'good patient persona'.

BMC Infectious Diseases

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

The granular representation of time series is then discussed with a number of representation alternatives.

Information Sciences

Furthermore, Gacek recently discussed the granular representation of time series with a number of representation alternatives and the question of forming adjustable temporal slices, and presented an optimization criterion of a sum of volumes of IG [74].

Brain Informatics

A number of different representations have been used to describe protein structure and thus protein protein interfaces, from contact maps to all-atom representations.

Bioinformatics

He has had a number of prominent representations in private practice, including successfully defending General Electric from the government's price-fixing accusations in 1994.

The New York Times

There are a number of numerical representations for nucleotide sequences.

EURASIP Journal on Advances in Signal Processing

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a number of representations", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being represented and why multiple representations are relevant. For example, specify the type of data, model, or perspective being represented.

Common error

Avoid using "a number of representations" without providing context or clarifying the nature of these representations. Vague usage can leave the reader unclear about the actual diversity or types of representations involved.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a number of representations" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It introduces the idea of multiple instances or versions, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

33%

Encyclopedias

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a number of representations" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that refers to multiple forms or depictions of something. Ludwig indicates that its primary function is to introduce multiple instances, with the communicative purpose of providing a comprehensive or varied understanding. Predominantly found in science, news, and encyclopedia contexts, it maintains a neutral to formal register. To avoid vagueness, always provide context to define the type of representation and the reason for its multiplicity. While "a number of representations" is not incorrect, consider "various depictions", "multiple accounts" or "several versions" when applicable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

various depictions

Changes the quantifier and noun to emphasize variety in the depictions.

multiple accounts

Focuses on the idea of several different narratives or explanations.

several versions

Highlights the existence of different iterations or forms.

diverse portrayals

Emphasizes the variety and range of the portrayals.

numerous interpretations

Shifts the focus to the different ways something can be understood.

assorted renditions

Suggests a collection of different performances or versions.

manifold embodiments

Implies a variety of physical forms or expressions.

varied expressions

Highlights different ways something is communicated or manifested.

multiple illustrations

Focuses on visual examples or explanations.

different perspectives

Shifts the focus to different viewpoints or angles.

FAQs

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

You can use "a number of representations" when discussing different depictions or versions of something. For example: "The research presented "a number of representations" of the data to illustrate the findings."

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

You can use alternatives like "various depictions", "multiple accounts", or "several versions" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "a number of representations" or "the number of representations"?

"A number of representations" implies multiple, unspecified instances, while "the number of representations" refers to a specific, quantifiable amount. The choice depends on whether you are emphasizing variety or a precise count.

What's the difference between "a number of representations" and "different perspectives"?

"A number of representations" generally refers to various forms or depictions, whereas "different perspectives" emphasizes differing viewpoints or interpretations. The former is broader and can include visual or data-driven forms, while the latter is typically conceptual.