a precise number

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a precise number" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific, exact quantity or figure in a context that requires accuracy. Example: "The report indicated that a precise number of participants would be required for the study to yield valid results."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Each model is then wound a precise number of times.

The New York Times

There's not enough data to give a precise number.

The Guardian

Captain Perez offered a precise number and suggested a method.

The New York Times

He shook his head; a precise number was impossible to give.

The New Yorker

The report named a precise number of cuts: 27,691 jobs.

The New York Times

"I am not able to give you a precise number and identity of those killed.

The Guardian

He declined to list the countries or give a precise number.

The New York Times

He said, without giving a precise number, that most of the dead were women and children.

The New York Times

It appears that the Delaware courts favor DCF because it can yield a precise number.

Harvard University

A precise number of drug overdose deaths will not be available until December.

The New York Times

Quite a few people were wounded but it's too early for a precise number".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for clarity and avoiding ambiguity, use "a precise number" instead of vague quantifiers like "several" or "many".

Common error

Avoid using "a precise number" when an estimate is more appropriate or when precision is impossible to achieve. In situations where accuracy is unattainable or unnecessary, opt for terms like "approximately" or "around" to convey a more realistic sense of quantity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a precise number" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as an object or complement within a sentence. It denotes a specific and exact quantity, emphasizing accuracy and definiteness as demonstrated by Ludwig in numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

25%

Science

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

4%

Wiki

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a precise number" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed noun phrase, as validated by Ludwig AI. Its primary function is to denote an exact quantity or amount, emphasizing accuracy and specificity. It is prevalent in news, academic, and scientific contexts. While alternatives like "an exact count" or "an accurate figure" exist, the choice depends on the specific nuance intended. When using this phrase, ensure that precision is genuinely achievable and relevant to avoid misleading or unnecessarily specific statements.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an exact count

Emphasizes the accuracy and act of counting.

an accurate figure

Highlights the correctness and reliability of the number.

a specific quantity

Focuses on the defined amount of something.

a definite amount

Stresses the certainty and clarity of the quantity.

a fixed total

Implies a number that is set and unchanging.

a concrete value

Emphasizes the tangible and measurable aspect of the number.

an actual sum

Focuses on the reality and calculation of the number.

an individual data point

Highlights a single, distinct piece of numerical information.

a measured value

Stresses that the number has been obtained through measurement.

an absolute figure

Implies that the number is without any uncertainty or variation.

FAQs

How to use "a precise number" in a sentence?

You can use "a precise number" to indicate a specific, exact quantity. For example, "The study required "a precise number" of participants to ensure accurate results."

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

You can use alternatives like "an exact count", "an accurate figure", or "a specific quantity" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "a precise number"?

It is appropriate to use "a precise number" when you need to emphasize the importance of an exact quantity or when providing an exact value is crucial for understanding or accuracy.

What's the difference between "a precise number" and "an approximate number"?

"A precise number" indicates an exact and definite value, while "an approximate number" suggests an estimated or rounded value. Use "a precise number" when accuracy is essential and "an approximate number" when an estimate is sufficient.