an appropriate amount of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'an appropriate amount of' is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use this phrase to describe something that is sufficient for a particular purpose or situation. For example, "Each student should bring an appropriate amount of supplies for the competition."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"This is an appropriate amount of time.

The New York Times

After an appropriate amount of foreplay, he slipped on his condom, entered her, and, after an appropriate amount of time, ejaculated.

The New Yorker

After an appropriate amount of time, I thought I ought leave, but Rizzuto said: "You can't leave yet.

The New York Times - Sports

Wherever people are around the world there ought to be an appropriate amount of food growing.

BBC

The pellet is resuspended in an appropriate amount of PBS for further analysis like mass spectrometry.

Nano Convergence

These values allow an appropriate amount of angular and diffusive flexibility.

EURASIP Journal on Advances in Signal Processing

Unbound probes were blocked by adding an appropriate amount of goat serum.

Nanoscale Research Letters

After stirring for 30 min, an appropriate amount of NH4F was charged.

Nanoscale Research Letters

You can't expect to enjoy the latter without committing to an appropriate amount of uninterrupted rest on a consistent basis.

Forbes

Drink an appropriate amount of water and healthy fluids.

HuffPost

I lay awake until I thought an appropriate amount of time had passed.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an appropriate amount of", ensure the context clarifies what constitutes 'appropriate' for the specific situation. Be specific when possible to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "an appropriate amount of" without specifying the criteria for appropriateness. Saying "add an appropriate amount of water" is less helpful than "add an appropriate amount of water, typically 200ml, until the mixture reaches a smooth consistency".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an appropriate amount of" functions as a determiner phrase, specifically quantifying a noun in a way that suggests suitability or sufficiency. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct. For example, "Drink an appropriate amount of water and healthy fluids."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

35%

News & Media

35%

Wiki

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "an appropriate amount of" is a versatile and grammatically sound way to express a suitable quantity in various contexts. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. It is very commonly used across different domains, especially in science, news, and general informational content. For clarity, it's best practice to provide context or specifications for what constitutes 'appropriate' in a given situation. While alternatives like "a suitable quantity of" or "a sufficient quantity of" exist, specificity is key to avoiding vagueness and ensuring effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a suitable quantity of

Emphasizes suitability for a specific need.

a sufficient quantity of

Highlights that the quantity is enough to meet a requirement.

an adequate quantity of

Focuses on the quantity being just enough, meeting the minimum requirement.

a fitting quantity of

Stresses the appropriateness and harmony with the situation.

a proportionate amount of

Indicates a balanced quantity relative to other factors.

a reasonable quantity of

Suggests a moderate and sensible amount.

the right quantity of

Highlights the accuracy and correctness of the amount.

a measured quantity of

Implies that the amount has been carefully determined and is precise.

a fair amount of

Suggests an equitable and just quantity.

a decent amount of

Implies a quantity that is respectable and satisfactory.

FAQs

How can I use "an appropriate amount of" in a sentence?

Use "an appropriate amount of" to indicate a quantity that is suitable or sufficient for a particular purpose or situation. For example, "Drink "an appropriate amount of water" and healthy fluids".

What are some alternatives to using "an appropriate amount of"?

You can use alternatives like "a suitable quantity of", "a sufficient quantity of", or "an adequate quantity of" depending on the context.

Is it better to be specific rather than using "an appropriate amount of"?

While "an appropriate amount of" is grammatically correct, being specific is often better for clarity. Instead of saying "use "an appropriate amount of fertilizer"", specify the exact quantity recommended.

What does "appropriate" mean in the context of "an appropriate amount of"?

In this context, "appropriate" means suitable or fitting for the particular purpose or circumstances. It implies that the quantity is neither too much nor too little, but just right for achieving the desired outcome. The interpretation of what constitutes "appropriate" depends heavily on the context.