actual number

USAGE SUMMARY

"actual number" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to the exact or precise number in a sentence, as opposed to an estimate or approximate number. Example: The actual number of attendees at the conference was higher than expected, with over 500 people in attendance.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Voila: An actual number.

The New York Times

The actual number was probably much higher.

The Economist

The actual number is nine.

The Washington Post

The actual number is 146,000.

The New York Times

The actual number might be higher.

The New York Times

The actual number is not yet known.

The New York Times

The actual number is likely considerably less.

Harvard University

The actual number at this point has been two.

The Guardian

The actual number ended up being about $1.1 billion".

The New York Times - Magazine

So the actual number is likely much higher.

The Guardian - Opinion

But the actual number is likely to be far higher.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "actual number", ensure you have a reliable source or method for determining the number to maintain credibility.

Common error

Avoid presenting the "actual number" as absolutely definitive without acknowledging potential margins of error or limitations in data collection.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "actual number" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It specifies a precise quantity, often contrasting with estimates. As demonstrated by Ludwig AI, it's used to convey factual information.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Science

17%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "actual number" is a commonly used noun phrase to denote a precise and factual quantity, often contrasting with estimates. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts, particularly in news, science, and business. When employing this phrase, ensure that the number is derived from a reliable source. While its usage is widespread, remember to avoid redundancy such as "the actual number is exact", since the word "actual" already implies precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exact quantity

Emphasizes precision and accuracy in measurement.

precise figure

Highlights numerical precision.

real count

Focuses on the reality and factuality of the enumeration.

true amount

Stresses authenticity and correctness in quantity.

accurate total

Highlights the accuracy of the overall sum.

specific number

Emphasizes the detail and particularity of the numerical value.

verified number

Indicates that the number has been confirmed.

factual quantity

Highlights that the amount is based on facts.

absolute number

Stresses the finality and unchangeable nature of the number.

confirmed count

Indicates the count has been validated.

FAQs

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

Use "actual number" to specify a precise quantity or amount, contrasting it with estimates or projections. For example, "The "actual number" of participants exceeded our initial expectations".

What's a good alternative to "actual number"?

Consider using synonyms like "exact quantity", "precise figure", or "real count" depending on the context.

When should I use "actual number" versus "estimated number"?

Use "actual number" when you have an accurate count or measurement, and "estimated number" when you have an approximation or projection.

Is it redundant to say "the actual number is exact"?

Yes, it can be redundant. Since "actual" already implies precision, saying "the actual number is exact" is often unnecessary. Simply state the "actual number".