a number of samples

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a number of samples" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to multiple samples in a context such as research, testing, or analysis. Example: "In our study, we collected a number of samples to ensure the accuracy of our results."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Her doctors collected a number of samples, including cerebrospinal fluid from a lumbar puncture.

The New Yorker

In the new case, tests in two laboratories in Taiwan have identified the SARS coronavirus in a number of samples taken from the researcher, Dick Thompson, a spokesman for the health agency in Geneva, said.

The New York Times

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention analyzed a number of samples from laboratories across the country and found that 82percentt were the Fujian A strain and 18percentthehe Panama A strain.

The New York Times

After peering through the microscope at a number of samples and trying to reconcile the dates, researchers will measure each ring to the nearest micron using a desktop device called a Velmex measuring stage.

The New Yorker

Additionally, a number of samples were analyzed in duplicate.

Environmental Sciences Europe

A number of samples were prepared using the procedure.

International Journal of Industrial Chemistry

Average spectra from a number of samples are presented.

Journal of Sound and Vibration

However, more importantly, both mycobacterial pathogens (mixed infection) were identified in a number of samples.

Tuberculosis

This design allows a number of samples to be introduced simultaneously.

International Journal of Mass Spectrometry

(A) Number of samples and mean estimation error (mean and standard deviation over ten repetitions).

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

To reduce the noise effect, final estimate needs to be averaged over a number of samples.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing for a scientific or technical audience, using "a number of samples" is a clear and acceptable way to indicate that you are working with more than one sample. Ensure that the context clearly defines what constitutes a 'sample' in your particular study or analysis.

Common error

Avoid using "a number of samples" when the exact number is known and relevant. If the specific quantity adds important information, provide the precise number (e.g., "We analyzed 15 samples").

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a number of samples" functions as a quantifier phrase, specifying that there are multiple samples being referred to. As demonstrated by Ludwig, this phrase is used to indicate a quantity greater than one without specifying an exact number.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

76%

News & Media

20%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a number of samples" is a grammatically correct and common way to refer to multiple samples. Ludwig AI confirms its wide acceptance in both scientific and general contexts. It is particularly prevalent in scientific writing, as evidenced by its frequent appearance in scientific journals. Alternatives such as "several samples" or "various samples" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. While the phrase is acceptable, it's important to specify the exact number of samples if the specific quantity is crucial to your writing. Remember that clarity and context are key when determining the best way to express the quantity of samples in your work.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

several samples

Replaces "a number of" with "several", offering a more concise way to indicate multiple items.

various samples

Substitutes "a number of" with "various", highlighting the diversity or variety of the samples.

multiple samples

Uses "multiple" instead of "a number of", providing a direct and clear indication of more than one sample.

numerous samples

Suggests a large, unspecified quantity of samples.

several specimens

Uses the word specimen instead of samples.

a few samples

Employs "a few" to suggest a smaller quantity of samples, implying a limited number.

some samples

Replaces "a number of" with "some", offering a general indication of the presence of samples without specifying the exact quantity.

a quantity of samples

Refers to samples in terms of measured amount.

a selection of samples

Highlights that samples were chosen from a larger group

a range of samples

Focuses on diversity within the sample group.

FAQs

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

You can use "a number of samples" to indicate that you are referring to multiple samples. For example, "A number of samples were collected for the experiment."

What are some alternatives to "a number of samples"?

Some alternatives include "several samples", "multiple samples", or "various samples", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "a number of samples" or specify the exact number?

It depends on the context. Use "a number of samples" when the specific quantity isn't crucial. If the exact number is important, specify it (e.g., "ten samples").

When is it appropriate to use "a number of samples" in scientific writing?

It is appropriate in scientific writing when you want to indicate that you have used more than one sample without needing to provide the precise amount. Ensure the term "sample" is well-defined within the paper.