a sufficient number

USAGE SUMMARY

The expression "a sufficient number" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to an amount that is enough or adequate for a specific purpose. For example, "We need to recruit a sufficient number of volunteers to assist with the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Before long, I had amassed a sufficient number of circles.

The New Yorker

Convergence is ensured by taking a sufficient number of approximations.

Journal of Sound and Vibration

The average of a sufficient number of guesses will get the number of jellybeans right.

The Guardian - Books

Anything that a sufficient number of people in green eyeshades declare, I'll endorse.

The New Yorker

When she answered a sufficient number of problems correctly, she advanced to the next section.

The New Yorker

(what 19th-century Italian opera doesn't?) Both leave behind a sufficient number of dead bodies.

The New York Times - Arts

In a general way, there were a sufficient number of personal links between Beckett and Ernst.

The Guardian

A sufficient number of endemic and forest-dependent species were observed to conduct individual-based rarefaction.

Nature

This time they – or, rather, a sufficient number of them – had changed their minds.

The Guardian - Business

The State agency should supply employers with a sufficient number of leaflets.

Cornell University

So we had livestock mortality data since 2000, every month, a sufficient number of households.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a sufficient number", clearly define what constitutes 'sufficient' in your specific context to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "a sufficient number" without providing context or quantifiable measures. Instead of saying "We need a sufficient number of participants", specify "We need at least 50 participants to ensure statistical significance."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a sufficient number" functions as a determiner phrase modifying a noun. It indicates that the quantity or amount of something is adequate or enough to meet a particular requirement or purpose. Ludwig provides numerous examples where the phrase is used to specify that a certain quantity is needed for a desired outcome.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

35%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the expression "a sufficient number" is a common and grammatically sound way to express that there is an adequate quantity of something for a specific purpose. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. It's frequently found in news, scientific, and academic contexts. While versatile, it's important to define what constitutes "sufficient" within your context to maintain clarity. Alternatives include "an adequate amount" or "enough individuals", depending on the noun being modified. Remember to be specific to avoid vagueness and ensure your message is clear and precise.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an adequate quantity

Focuses more on the quantity being adequate rather than the count.

enough individuals

Emphasizes individual entities being sufficient.

a satisfactory amount

Highlights that the amount meets requirements or expectations.

a requisite quantity

Suggests that the quantity is mandatory or essential.

an ample supply

Indicates a generous or abundant supply.

a plentiful supply

Similar to 'ample', but emphasizes abundance.

the needed amount

Highlights that the amount is what is needed.

a suitable quantity

Emphasizes appropriateness for a specific purpose.

a considerable amount

Indicates that the quantity is significant or noteworthy.

a fair amount

Implies that the amount is reasonable or just.

FAQs

How can I use "a sufficient number" in a sentence?

You can use "a sufficient number" to indicate that there is enough of something to meet a particular need or purpose. For example, "We need "a sufficient number" of volunteers to run the event smoothly."

What's the difference between "a sufficient number" and "an adequate number"?

"A sufficient number" and "an adequate number" are quite similar, both suggesting that the quantity is enough. However, "sufficient" can imply meeting a specific requirement, while "adequate" suggests just barely meeting the requirement.

Which is correct, "sufficient number" or "sufficient amount"?

Both "sufficient number" and "sufficient amount" are correct, but they are used with different types of nouns. Use "sufficient number" with countable nouns (e.g., "a sufficient number of people"), and use "sufficient amount" with uncountable nouns (e.g., "a sufficient amount of water").

What are some alternatives to "a sufficient number"?

You can use alternatives like "an adequate amount", "enough individuals", or "a satisfactory amount" depending on the context.