a number of workers

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a number of workers" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to an unspecified quantity of workers, typically indicating that there are several or many involved in a particular context. Example: "A number of workers participated in the community cleanup event last weekend."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A human resources manager who worked for the company a decade ago hired a number of workers without conducting an extra check of their documents with the Social Security Administration, the executive said.

The New York Times

A number of workers conspicuously avoided the candidate, walking through mud to get inside the plant.

The New York Times

However, her toughness is double-edged, with a number of workers said to fear her.

The Guardian - Business

During this period the government undertook the building of a number of workers' clubs.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Each year, when the budget runs out, a number of workers are temporarily removed from the payroll.

The Guardian

In October of 2014, for example, a number of workers staged a protest outside Walmart heiress Alice Walton's $26m 6,346 sq ft New York condo.

The Guardian

A number of workers, including Reynolds, filed complaints this September with the Wisconsin department of workforce development seeking to increase the wage.

The Guardian - Money

Another migrant, Emmantel Audige was one of a number of workers we met living near the Haitian border and is employed on a Fairtrade certified banana plantation.

The Guardian

Further, a number of workers lost their jobs during the investigation, either by leaving after being threatened or by being fired, she said.

The New York Times

In 1980, the O. M. Scott & Sons Company was using the Libby vermiculite in fertilizer when a number of workers fell ill.

The New York Times

However, a number of workers have left the initiative in recent months, leading to speculation that Apple is struggling with its design or director.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a number of workers", ensure the context clarifies whether the quantity is significant or just a few. For greater precision, consider alternatives like "several" or "many".

Common error

Avoid using "a number of workers" when the exact number is known and relevant. Instead, state the specific quantity for clarity. For example, instead of "A number of workers were laid off", use "Fifty workers were laid off" if the exact number is known.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a number of workers" functions as a determiner phrase followed by a noun phrase. It acts as a subject or object in a sentence, indicating an unspecified quantity of individuals engaged in labor. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

40%

Encyclopedias

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

2%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a number of workers" is a grammatically sound and versatile expression used to denote an unspecified quantity of individuals engaged in work. As Ludwig AI indicates, its proper usage spans diverse contexts from news reporting to scientific literature. The phrase is most prevalent in news and scientific sources, indicating its broad applicability. When writing, it's advisable to be mindful of whether the exact number of workers is known or relevant; if so, specifying the quantity provides greater clarity. Otherwise, this phrase offers a convenient way to discuss workforces without needing precise figures. Related phrases include "several employees", "various staff members", and "multiple laborers", each offering subtle variations in tone and emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

several employees

Replaces "number" with "several" and "workers" with "employees", implying a specific but small quantity.

various staff members

Uses "various" instead of "a number" and "staff members" in place of "workers", suggesting a diverse group.

multiple laborers

Substitutes "number" with "multiple" and "workers" with "laborers", emphasizing the physical aspect of their work.

a group of employees

Replaces "a number" with "a group", offering a more collective feel.

many personnel

Uses "many" in place of "a number" and "personnel" instead of "workers", suggesting a formal setting.

numerous workforce participants

Replaces with more formal and descriptive language, highlighting the employees' involvement in the workforce.

a significant portion of the staff

Emphasizes the proportion of employees, rather than simply the quantity.

a contingent of personnel

Suggests a group assigned to a specific task or purpose.

a team of operatives

Highlights a coordinated group working towards a common objective.

some members of staff

Implies an unspecified quantity.

FAQs

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

You can use "a number of workers" to refer to an unspecified quantity of people employed in a particular field or project. For instance, "A number of workers are needed to complete the construction on time."

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

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "several employees", "various staff members", or "multiple laborers".

Is it more formal to say "a number of workers" or "several workers"?

"A number of workers" can be considered slightly more formal than "several workers", but both are generally acceptable in most contexts. The best choice depends on the specific tone and style of your writing.

When should I use "a number of workers" instead of a specific number?

Use "a number of workers" when the exact quantity is unknown or unimportant, or when you want to emphasize that there are multiple people involved without specifying the exact count. However, if the exact number is known and relevant, it is better to use the specific number for clarity.