a number of tools

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a number of tools" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a group of items that are used for a specific purpose. For example, "She had a number of tools at her disposal to get the job done."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"The government has a number of tools at its disposal.

The New York Times

We'll be using a number of tools to facilitate discussion.

Harvard University

There are a number of tools that can help you extend the life of your research.

The Guardian

Private eyes spying on potentially law-breaking tenants have a number of tools at their disposal.

The New York Times

There are a number of tools that support staff working together.

The Guardian

"The international community have a number of tools they can engage on this," he said.

The Guardian

Armed with an I.P. number, you can use a number of tools.

The New York Times - Tech

A number of tools exist for interpreting these readouts, including GATK, VarDict, and FreeBayes.

MIT Technology Review

Archaic peoples also created a number of tools not seen before in the Americas.

Britannica

For that there should be a number of tools in the Media Logging toolbox.

Harvard University

There are a number of tools available to help you get there.

Columbia University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a number of tools", ensure the context clearly indicates the purpose or function of these tools to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "a number of tools" as a generic filler. Be specific about the tools if possible, or at least provide enough context so the reader understands their nature and application.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a number of tools" functions as a quantifier followed by a noun. It indicates that there are multiple instruments or resources available for a particular purpose. Ludwig AI confirms its broad usability, especially in conveying the presence of multiple aids without specifying each one.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Academia

32%

News & Media

32%

Science

31%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a number of tools" is a grammatically sound and widely used expression to indicate the availability of multiple instruments or resources. Ludwig AI confirms its broad applicability across different contexts. As evidenced by the examples, it commonly appears in academic, scientific, and news-related content. While it's versatile, it's essential to provide sufficient context to avoid vagueness and ensure clarity. Alternatives such as "various instruments" or "multiple resources" can be used for variety, depending on the specific meaning you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a collection of utilities

Specifies a set of useful tools designed for particular tasks.

assorted implements

Refers to a mixed group of tools, often for practical or technical applications.

various instruments

Focuses on the variety of instruments available, which are specialized tools.

numerous devices

Focuses on the quantity of devices, each serving as a tool.

several techniques

Highlights the methods or procedures used, implying tools are employed within them.

multiple resources

Emphasizes the availability of different resources that can act as tools.

a range of methods

Indicates a spectrum of methods, each potentially utilizing different tools.

a variety of mechanisms

Emphasizes different operational structures that function as tools.

diverse solutions

Stresses the variety of solutions, where each may involve distinct tools or approaches.

an array of options

Presents a selection of choices, some of which might be tool-based.

FAQs

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

You can use "a number of tools" to indicate that there are multiple instruments or resources available for a particular purpose. For example, "The researcher employed "a number of tools" to analyze the data".

What are some alternatives to saying "a number of tools"?

Alternatives to "a number of tools" include "various instruments", "several techniques", or "multiple resources". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to be specific instead of saying "a number of tools"?

In many cases, being specific is better. Instead of saying "a number of tools", try to list the actual tools being used. However, "a number of tools" is appropriate when you want to avoid listing every single item or when the specific tools are not important.

What does "a number of tools at one's disposal" mean?

"A number of tools at one's disposal" means that someone has various resources or instruments available to use as needed. This implies a capability or readiness to address a situation effectively.