a ream of

USAGE SUMMARY

"a ream of" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase is typically used to refer to a large amount of something, usually 500 sheets of paper. For example, "I need to buy a ream of paper for this project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Both candidates offer a ream of specific policy proposals.

The New York Times

Inside the RV, she packs a ream of paper and extra ribbon.

The New York Times

He reeled off a ream of statistics to show the scale of the response so far.

The New York Times

I can't really walk around with a ream of paper in my knapsack.

The New Yorker

He quotes a ream of conflicting views on the Clintons' marriage.

The Economist

Is it ethical to take a ream of paper from school for use at home?

The New York Times - Magazine

Siri: "Here's your reminder for when you get to work: Steal a ream of paper.

The New York Times

Me: "Remind me to steal a ream of paper when I arrive at the office".

The New York Times

In addition its nightly report was little more than a ream of highlights.

The New York Times

He must fill out a ream of papers and answer many questions.

The New York Times

On Tuesday, his mother picked up a ream of letters scrawled in spidery Arabic writing.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a ream of" to describe a large quantity of something, particularly paper or documents, but also more abstract things like statistics or ideas. Ensure the context aligns with this sense of abundance.

Common error

Avoid using "a ream of" for small or insignificant quantities. This phrase implies a substantial amount, so using it for something trivial can sound awkward or exaggerated.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a ream of" functions as a determiner followed by a noun, modifying a noun phrase. It indicates a large, often excessive, quantity of something. This aligns with Ludwig AI's assessment that the phrase is correct and typically refers to a large amount.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a ream of" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe a large quantity of something. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, its typical usage involves referring to a significant amount, often paper, but it can extend metaphorically to data, statistics, and other items. Primarily found in news and media contexts, the phrase is suitable for neutral registers, making it a versatile choice for various writing styles. When employing this phrase, remember that it implies abundance, so be sure it aligns with your intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a large quantity of

Replaces "ream" with a more general term for a substantial amount.

a great deal of

Emphasizes the significant amount, suitable for uncountable nouns.

a considerable amount of

Highlights the substantial nature of the quantity.

a multitude of

Implies a very large number of items or instances.

a wealth of

Suggests a rich and abundant supply, often used for resources or information.

an abundance of

Focuses on the plentiful and overflowing nature of the quantity.

a profusion of

Conveys an extravagant and lavish quantity.

a mountain of

Uses a metaphorical comparison to emphasize the large size.

a stack of

Suggests items neatly arranged on top of each other.

a sea of

Emphasizes the vastness and expansiveness of the quantity.

FAQs

How can I use "a ream of" in a sentence?

You can use "a ream of" to describe a large quantity of something, particularly paper or documents. For example, "He handed me "a ream of papers" to review".

What is a good alternative to "a ream of"?

Alternatives include "a large quantity of", "a great deal of", or "an abundance of", depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "a ream of" for non-physical items?

Yes, "a ream of" can be used metaphorically for non-physical items like data, statistics, or ideas. For example, "The report contained "a ream of negative statistics"".

What does "a ream of" typically refer to?

While it can be used more broadly, "a ream of" most commonly refers to 500 sheets of paper. The phrase can also suggest a similar large quantity of other things.