a wider number

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a wider number" is not standard in written English and may sound awkward.
It could be used when referring to a larger quantity or range of something, but it is better to use more conventional expressions. Example: "The survey reached a wider number of participants this year compared to last year."

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

It would have opened up to a wider number of applications at launch".

The Guardian - Tech

But support has been extended to a wider number of people - and help is offered outside the county.

The Guardian

The Copenhagen accord exists and has been heralded by some as a new beginning, involving a wider number of countries in a common effort to avert catastrophe.

The Guardian

However badger control in the south west has been successful and we are enabling it to take place over a wider number of areas".

The Guardian

The environment secretary, Liz Truss, backed a rollout in February, saying: "I want to see culling expanded across a wider number of areas this year".

The Guardian

But that is a good thing, as it spreads the benefits of the entrepreneurial spirit more widely and it brings good, interesting jobs within the reach of a wider number of people.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

C. Nielsen does a separate survey of consumer behavior in a wide number of households.

The New York Times

This latest legislation would pose a difficulty for a wide number of authors, directors and performers.

The Guardian

"Our digital life is fragmented into a wide number of services," he said.

The New York Times - Tech

"The disadvantage is that they don't cover a wide number of indicators," says Prasad.

The Guardian

It is large, with articles on a wide number of issues, including, as an example, emergency contraception.

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for clarity, consider whether "a larger number" or "a greater number" might be more appropriate, as "a wider number" can sometimes sound less formal.

Common error

While acceptable, avoid using "a wider number" excessively in highly formal writing. Opt for more precise alternatives like "a greater quantity" or "a larger proportion" for improved clarity and sophistication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a wider number" primarily functions as a determiner phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a larger quantity or range. Ludwig's examples showcase its usage in various contexts, from technology to social issues.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

44%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a wider number" is used to indicate a larger quantity or a broader range. While acceptable, Ludwig AI suggests it can sometimes sound less formal than alternatives like "a larger number" or "a greater quantity". With substantial presence in News & Media and Science contexts, it is suitable for neutral to professional communication. However, highly formal writing may benefit from more precise phrasing. It's important to consider the context and desired level of formality when deciding whether to use "a wider number".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a greater quantity

Replaces "number" with "quantity", emphasizing the amount rather than the count.

a larger amount

Uses "amount" instead of "number", suitable for uncountable nouns.

a broader range

Shifts the focus to the diversity or extent of the set, rather than just the numerical size.

a more extensive selection

Highlights the variety and comprehensiveness of the choices.

a higher figure

Implies a numerical value, often used in statistical or financial contexts.

a more significant proportion

Focuses on the relative size compared to a whole.

an increased volume

Suitable when referring to something that can be measured by volume.

a more diverse group

Emphasizes the variety of elements within the group.

a multiplied amount

Highlights the growth or multiplication of the amount.

a bigger pool

Indicates a larger collection or source.

FAQs

What's a more formal alternative to "a wider number"?

In more formal contexts, consider using alternatives like "a larger number", "a greater quantity", or "a broader range" depending on the specific meaning you want to convey.

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

You can use "a wider number" to indicate a larger quantity or range of something. For example: "The new policy will affect a wider number of students." or "The study included a wider number of participants this year."

Is "a wider number" grammatically correct?

While not incorrect, "a wider number" is less conventional than alternatives like "a larger number" or "a greater number". It is acceptable but might sound slightly awkward in some contexts.

Which is better, "a wider number" or "a larger number"?

Both phrases are used, but "a larger number" is generally considered more standard and versatile. "A wider number" implies a broader scope or range in addition to quantity.