a sequential number

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a sequential number" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a number that follows a specific order or sequence, often in contexts like lists, databases, or programming. Example: "Each participant will be assigned a sequential number for tracking purposes."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

By April 28, 10 days before the bombing, planners in Europe had assigned the target, like every one in the war, a sequential number.

The New York Times

Upon completion, each survey was dated and given a sequential number as a unique identifier.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

The model is assigned a sequential number and is ready to be exposed as a web service accessible from outside the VM.

Journal of Cheminformatics

In this paper the author make a comprehensive comparison of different parallelizations of a sequential number theoretic algorithm having large memory requirements.

Journal of Parallel and Distributed Computing

At each point, the label was assigned an "S" for a slope or "C" for a cliff, and followed by a sequential number from upstream to downstream in ascending order.

Geoenvironmental Disasters

Samples that have been newly created or that have been generated via the copy of a molecular structure have a simple name consisting of the initials of the ELN user and a sequential number.

Journal of Cheminformatics

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

MMPs are multidomain proteins named according to a sequential numbering scheme (Figure 1).

Molecular and Cellular Pediatrics

Instead of a sequential numbering system, the new one uses the year and the month to identify the version more clearly.

TechCrunch

A temporary name has been given to each miRNA sequence either using a sequential numbering associated with the abbreviation mirC (miRNA Candidate) for those similar to other known plant miRNAs or using "grape-m" with a random numbering for those completely new candidates.

BMC Genomics

For both phases, individual envelopes were prepared with a sequential serial number on the outside of a sealed envelope (separate set of ordered envelopes for each VDC-Gestational Age stratum in both phases and the treatment assignment for that participant was printed on a piece of paper inside the envelope).

BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth

M01ZH09 and placebo were packaged and labeled identically but with a unique sequential number.

Plosone

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When assigning identifiers, use "a sequential number" for clarity and easy tracking, especially in datasets and experiments. This ensures that each item has a unique and easily traceable identifier.

Common error

Avoid gaps or repetitions in your numbering system when using "a sequential number". Inconsistencies can lead to confusion and make data analysis difficult.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a sequential number" typically functions as a noun phrase acting as a direct object or appositive. It identifies a number that is part of an ordered series. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically sound and widely applicable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

76%

News & Media

16%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a sequential number" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase, as verified by Ludwig AI, especially within scientific and technical contexts. Its primary function is to provide a unique and ordered identifier. While alternatives like "a consecutive number" or "a serial number" exist, the choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Remember to maintain consistency in numbering to avoid confusion. This phrase's frequency and clarity make it an essential part of technical and organizational writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a consecutive number

Changes the adjective from 'sequential' to 'consecutive', emphasizing the unbroken order.

an ordered number

Replaces 'sequential' with 'ordered', focusing on the arrangement rather than the process.

a serial number

Uses 'serial' to highlight the unique identification aspect within a sequence.

a running number

Implies a continuous and uninterrupted numbering system.

an ascending number

Focuses on the increasing order of the number.

a progressive number

Highlights the forward movement in the numbering.

a successive number

Emphasizes that each number follows the previous one directly.

a numbered sequence

Shifts the focus from the number itself to the overall sequence.

a numbered list

Specific to list contexts, indicating items are ordered numerically.

an enumerated item

Highlights the act of assigning a number to an item in a series.

FAQs

How do I use "a sequential number" in a sentence?

You can use "a sequential number" to assign unique identifiers to items in a list or dataset. For example, "Each participant in the study was assigned "a sequential number" for tracking purposes".

What are some alternatives to using "a sequential number"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "a consecutive number", "an ordered number", or "a serial number". Each option emphasizes slightly different aspects of the numbering system.

Is it necessary to start at 1 when using "a sequential number"?

While starting at 1 is common, it is not always necessary. The important thing is to maintain a consistent and unbroken sequence. You can start at any number as long as each subsequent item receives the next number in the sequence.

What is the difference between "a sequential number" and "a random number"?

A sequential number follows a predictable order, increasing by one with each new item. In contrast, a random number is generated without any discernible pattern or order.