according to a number

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "according to a number" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referencing information or opinions that come from various sources or individuals. Example: "According to a number of experts, climate change is accelerating at an alarming rate."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

According to a number of researchers, there often are.

The New Yorker

Not bad, according to a number of experts.

The New York Times

Maintaining concentration requires willpower, and willpower is, according to a number of psychologists, a limited resource.

Stanford University

According to a number of heads of state and policymakers, the answer is yes.

The Guardian

The story, according to a number of books, was a product of Hellman's imagination.

The New York Times

According to a number of experts, he harnessed the widespread corruption as a method of government.

The New York Times

The initial interest rate varies according to a number of factors, including the applicant's credit history.

The New York Times

Besides these aspects, concrete has other advantages, according to a number of findings in several studies.

Ocean Engineering

● Ginger can help to prevent nausea, according to a number of studies.

The Times

According to a number of current and former government officials and weapons experts, Kushner's action was irregular.

The New Yorker

Like those attacks, the rioting in Lombok was provoked by anti-government instigators, according to a number of reports.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "according to a number", ensure the claim you're making is supported by multiple, independent sources to enhance credibility.

Common error

Avoid starting too many sentences with "according to a number" in a single paragraph. Vary your sentence structure by occasionally integrating the source information within the sentence to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "according to a number" functions as a reporting phrase, indicating that the information being presented is sourced from multiple entities. It serves to introduce or support claims by referencing the collective opinion or findings of various sources, as evidenced in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Science

15%

Academia

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Wiki

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "according to a number" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to attribute information to multiple sources. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for various contexts, particularly in news, scientific, and academic writing. To enhance writing quality, diversify sentence structures and ensure the sources cited are reliable. While alternatives exist, such as "several sources suggest" or "numerous studies indicate", the choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey. By following these guidelines, writers can effectively use "according to a number" to strengthen their arguments and enhance credibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

several sources suggest

This alternative is more direct and concise, emphasizing the origin of the information.

numerous studies indicate

This alternative is more specific to research contexts, highlighting that research supports a claim.

multiple reports confirm

This alternative is suitable for situations where the information comes from official reports.

various experts believe

This alternative emphasizes the role of expert opinion in supporting a claim.

a range of opinions suggest

This alternative highlights that the information is based on a spectrum of views.

many researchers have found

Focuses specifically on the findings of researchers.

it is widely believed that

Implies a general consensus, but can be less specific about the sources.

several investigations reveal

Highlights the result of formal investigations.

a consensus exists that

Emphasizes agreement among a group, but does not detail the number.

authorities generally agree

Implies the opinion is from a group of authoritative people.

FAQs

How can I use "according to a number" in a sentence?

Use "according to a number" to introduce information or opinions that are supported by multiple sources. For example, "According to a number of studies, regular exercise improves cognitive function."

What can I say instead of "according to a number"?

You can use alternatives like "several sources suggest", "numerous studies indicate", or "multiple reports confirm" depending on the context.

Is it better to specify the exact number of sources instead of using "according to a number"?

Specifying the exact number can strengthen your claim if the number is significant. However, "according to a number" is appropriate when the exact count is either unknown or less important than the fact that multiple sources agree.

Can I use "according to a number" for unreliable sources?

It's best to use "according to a number" when referring to credible and authoritative sources. If the sources are questionable, consider qualifying your statement or using a different phrase that reflects the uncertainty.