a set number of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a set number of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific, fixed quantity of something. Example: "The project requires a set number of volunteers to ensure its success."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Each constituency is assigned a set number of seats.

The Guardian

Crime is not the consequence of a set number of criminals; criminals are the consequence of a set number of opportunities to commit crimes.

The New Yorker

4) You now need to pick a set number of forams from the tray.

University of California, Berkeley

This document is broadcast to a set number of identified participants for return of proposal responses.

Cornell University

In the parallel region, the framework creates (forks) a set number of threads.

University of California, Berkeley

The couple spend a set number of days in each apartment.

The Guardian

They gain a set number of points by attending lectures at ASLA events.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Depending on your policy, your insurer may cover a set number of visits.

The New York Times

Each state is worth a set number of electoral college votes.

The Guardian

You have a set number of bubbles to fire on each level.

The Guardian - Tech

There are a set number of jobs to go around, of course.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a set number of" when you want to communicate that a quantity is predetermined and not subject to change. This implies a degree of planning and control.

Common error

Avoid using "a set number of" when the quantity is actually variable or approximate. For example, do not say 'We need a set number of volunteers' if you are willing to accept any number of volunteers; instead, use 'We need several volunteers'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a set number of" functions as a determiner phrase, specifically quantifying a noun. It specifies that the noun is limited to a particular, predetermined quantity. Ludwig AI confirms its frequent use across multiple domains.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Academia

23%

Wiki

17%

Less common in

Science

4%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a set number of" is a grammatically correct and frequently used determiner phrase that specifies a predetermined quantity. Ludwig AI’s analysis of numerous examples from diverse sources, including news, academia, and wikis, reveals its versatility and broad acceptance. While alternatives like "a fixed number of" or "a specific quantity of" can be used, the key is to ensure the context aligns with the intended meaning of a predetermined and limited quantity. Using this phrase correctly enhances clarity and precision in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a specific quantity of

Replaces 'set' with 'specific' to emphasize precision, quantity is used instead of number which fits uncountable nouns.

a fixed amount of

Substitutes 'number' with 'amount,' better suited for uncountable nouns. 'Fixed' replaces 'set,' indicating immutability.

a defined quantity of

Uses 'defined' instead of 'set' for clarity. Includes 'quantity' to emphasize measurability.

a predetermined amount of

Replaces 'set' with 'predetermined,' highlighting that the number was decided in advance.

a certain quantity of

Changes 'set' to 'certain,' suggesting a known but unspecified number.

a given quantity of

Uses 'given' instead of 'set' to mean already known or specified.

an established quantity of

Replaces 'set' with 'established,' focusing on the formal or official nature of the number.

a designated number of

Uses 'designated' instead of 'set' to suggest that the number was officially chosen for a purpose.

a prescribed number of

Changes 'set' to 'prescribed,' indicating that the number is required or dictated by a rule or authority.

a stipulated quantity of

Replaces 'set' with 'stipulated' to emphasize that the number is agreed upon as part of a condition or contract.

FAQs

How to use "a set number of" in a sentence?

You can use "a set number of" to indicate a specific, predetermined quantity of something. For example, "The recipe requires a "specific amount of" ingredients" or "Each player is allowed "a predetermined number of" moves per turn."

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

You can use alternatives like "a fixed number of", "a specific quantity of", or "a defined amount of" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "a set number of" in formal writing?

Yes, "a set number of" is suitable for formal writing as it clearly conveys that a specific quantity has been determined. It is commonly used in academic, business, and news contexts.

What's the difference between "a set number of" and "a certain number of"?

"A set number of" implies a precise, predetermined quantity, while "a certain number of" suggests a quantity that is known but not necessarily precisely defined. For instance, using "a "certain amount of"" something may not be pre-planned, like the "a certain amount of" happiness you can feel.