a number of texts

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a number of texts" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to multiple texts or documents in a general sense. Example: "In my research, I analyzed a number of texts to understand the author's perspective on the topic."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

39 human-written examples

He also promoted the re-publication of a number of texts significant in the history of socialism.

Independent

She edited a number of texts and critical studies, wrote more poems and verse plays, and continued to read for Faber.

The Guardian

After they discussed a number of texts, from the Bible to Nostradamus, Mr. Runestad realized he wanted to compose a work honoring combat veterans.

The New York Times

About the 10th century ce, however, there arose a number of texts that sought to combine the two philosophies more successfully.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He inscribed a number of texts within a circumference about that of a penny, mounted this example of dexterous penmanship on a ring, and presented it to Queen Elizabeth I, who greatly admired it.

Britannica

While the business lobbyists were fulminating about Miliband's anti-business crusade, I received a number of texts from leading businessmen who while intensely disliking the language of "predators" and " asset-stripping", were sympathetic to the larger arguments he is making.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

"He sent me a number of text messages.

The New York Times

He has authored and coauthored a number of text books explaining these techniques and illustrating their applications.

Stanford University

"I'm getting a number of text messages from friends around the country already," Arizona State Coach Herb Sendek said a few minutes after the game.

The New York Times - Sports

There are a number of text-blocking smartphone applications available that prevent the sending and receiving of texts in inappropriate situations, such as driving or attending class.

The New York Times

He has authored or coauthored a number of text books on these subjects, including Quantitative Analysis for Management now in its 9th edition.

Stanford University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a number of texts", ensure that the context clearly indicates what kind of texts you are referring to. For example, "a number of academic texts" or "a number of legal texts" provides more specific information.

Common error

Avoid using "a number of texts" when the items are not truly texts. For example, do not say "a number of texts were images". Instead, use a more appropriate term like "a number of images" or "a number of items".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a number of texts" functions as a determiner phrase followed by a plural noun. It indicates a non-specific quantity of written materials. As Ludwig AI states, it is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

31%

Academia

25%

Science

22%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a number of texts" is a grammatically sound and versatile expression used to refer to multiple written materials. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct for use in written English. It is most frequently found in news and media, academic, and scientific contexts. While alternatives such as "several texts" or "various texts" can be used for variety, the key is to ensure the context clearly indicates the type of texts being referenced. Avoiding its use when the items aren't truly texts will maintain clarity. Overall, the phrase is a reliable choice for referring to multiple written works.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

several texts

Replaces "a number of" with "several", indicating more than two but not many.

various texts

Substitutes "a number of" with "various", emphasizing diversity among the texts.

multiple texts

Replaces "a number of" with "multiple", indicating more than one text.

numerous texts

Uses "numerous" instead of "a number of", suggesting a large quantity of texts.

a few texts

Replaces "a number of" with "a few", indicating a small quantity of texts.

some texts

Uses "some" to replace "a number of", denoting an unspecified quantity of texts.

several documents

Replaces "texts" with "documents", offering a more formal tone.

various readings

Substitutes "texts" with "readings", focusing on the act of reading the texts.

a selection of texts

Replaces "a number of" with "a selection of", implying a curated group of texts.

a body of texts

Uses "a body of" instead of "a number of", referring to a substantial collection of texts.

FAQs

What does "a number of texts" mean?

The phrase "a number of texts" refers to more than one written work. It suggests that there are several, but not necessarily a large amount, of written materials being considered or referenced.

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

You can use "a number of texts" to indicate that you are analyzing or referring to multiple written works. For example, "The researcher analyzed "several texts" to support the hypothesis."

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

You can use alternatives like "several texts", "various texts", or "multiple texts" depending on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to say "a number of texts" or "several texts"?

Both "a number of texts" and "several texts" are grammatically correct and widely used. "Several texts" might sound slightly more concise and direct, but the choice depends on personal preference and the context of your writing.