a specific number of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a specific number of" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to talk about an exact amount of something. For example, "The students in this class are expected to read a specific number of books this semester".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Doctors can set the artificial heart to beat a specific number of times a minute.

The New York Times

A statement from the newspaper's management did not mention a specific number of layoffs.

The New York Times

She could not provide a specific number of the jobs offered.

The New York Times

The minutes do not refer to a specific number of rate hikes.

The Guardian - Business

Turkey has never acknowledged a specific number of deportees or deaths.

The New York Times

Mr. Masyr said that it was impossible to get tenants to promise to hire a specific number of employees.

The New York Times

That is because a flat-panel display, unlike a C.R.T., is built with a specific number of pixels.

The New York Times - Tech

I assume that the security staff is expected to randomly pull aside a specific number of individuals per hour.

The New York Times

What about a fee that applies only to residents who sell within a specific number of years after buying?

The New York Times

They storyboard everything in advance and a specific number of shots have to be done each day.

The Guardian - Film

Is there a specific number of studies supporting the reality of trans identities that we need to reach?

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a specific number of", ensure the context clearly indicates what the number refers to. This avoids ambiguity and enhances clarity for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "a specific number of" without providing context or clarity about what the number quantifies. Always ensure the reader understands the units and items being counted.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a specific number of" functions as a determiner phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a particular, though not necessarily stated, quantity. Ludwig examples confirm its role in specifying amounts or quantities.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a specific number of" is a versatile phrase used to denote a precise, albeit not always explicitly stated, quantity. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used across various contexts, from news and media to scientific literature. When using this phrase, ensure that the context provides sufficient clues to what the "specific number" refers. Alternatives like "a particular quantity of" or "a precise amount of" can be used for variety. Remember to avoid vagueness and maintain clarity to effectively communicate the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a particular quantity of

Emphasizes a distinct and defined quantity, similar to a specific amount.

a precise amount of

Highlights the exactness and accuracy of the quantity.

a fixed quantity of

Focuses on the unchangeable nature of the quantity.

a set number of

Indicates a predetermined and established quantity.

a defined amount of

Stresses that the quantity is clearly defined and not ambiguous.

an exact count of

Highlights the accuracy of the enumeration.

a determined quantity of

Focuses on the deliberateness in establishing the amount.

a given number of

Implies that the number is pre-established or known.

a stipulated amount of

Indicates that the quantity has been formally agreed upon or specified.

a designated quantity of

Suggests the quantity was selected with a particular purpose.

FAQs

How do I use "a specific number of" in a sentence?

Use "a specific number of" to indicate a precise quantity. For example, "The recipe requires "a specific number of" eggs".

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

You can use alternatives such as "a particular quantity of", "a precise amount of", or "a fixed quantity of" depending on the context.

Is it better to use "a specific number of" or the actual number?

It is generally better to use the actual number when it is known to avoid vagueness. Use "a specific number of" when you want to emphasize that there is a precise quantity without stating what it is.

What is the difference between "a specific number of" and "a certain number of"?

"A specific number of" implies a precise, though perhaps unstated, quantity. "A certain number of" suggests an unspecified or indefinite quantity that is known to exist but not precisely defined.