an average amount

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an average amount" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a typical or mean quantity of something in a specific context. Example: "The study found that participants consumed an average amount of calories per day, which was higher than expected."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It is averagely compelling (I finished it), involves an average amount of concentration and, if such a thing makes sense, is averagely well written: excellent in its averageness!

The New York Times - Books

What is an average amount of beta-carotene, you ask?

Columbia University

Curtis estimated that 90% of their donations came from individuals across the country, with an average amount of $20.

The Guardian

The company declined to provide an average amount of employee contributions, saying there were too many variations.

The New York Times

He added: "There will be an average amount of rainfall for April, which is a wet month anyway.

Independent

INDONESIA'S latest parliament set to work last month and chose a new speaker with only an average amount of fuss.

The Economist

It's best if you set a criteria for an average amount of red cells and if someone goes beyond that level they can't compete.

The New York Times - Sports

Mike Cherry, the FSB's national policy chairman, reported that floods cost small businesses an average amount of £1,531, causing disruption to staff, customers, suppliers and travel.

The Guardian

If a 5'2″ person who engages in an average amount of daily physical activity eats 3000 calories per day they will get fat.

Harvard University

About a decade ago, Oklahoma drew about an average amount of tax revenue per resident, compared with the rest of the country.

The Washington Post

In Southern California or Nevada, on a day with an average amount of sun, you can generate 800 megawatts on one square mile.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an average amount", ensure the context clearly defines what is being averaged. Specify the population or sample from which the average is derived to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "an average amount" represents a suitable or desirable quantity for every individual. Averages can mask significant variations, and individual needs may differ substantially from the norm.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an average amount" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It quantifies a substance, thing, or abstract concept, indicating a quantity that is typical or representative. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a common and grammatically correct expression.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

30%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an average amount" is a versatile noun phrase used to describe a typical or representative quantity. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts, from news and media to science and academia. When using this phrase, it's crucial to ensure clarity by specifying what is being averaged and acknowledging that averages can mask individual variations. Consider alternatives like "a typical quantity" or "a standard measure" for subtle differences in emphasis. By understanding the nuances of "an average amount", writers can effectively communicate quantities and establish benchmarks in their writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a typical quantity

Replaces "average" with "typical", emphasizing the commonness of the amount.

a usual measure

Uses "usual" instead of "average" to indicate the common occurrence of the amount.

a standard measure

Focuses on the amount being a recognized or accepted norm.

a normal degree

Highlights that the amount is within the bounds of what is expected.

a moderate quantity

Substitutes "average" with "moderate", suggesting the amount is neither excessive nor deficient.

a common extent

Replaces "amount" with "extent", altering the noun but retaining the sense of a typical degree.

an expected level

Shifts the focus to the anticipation or predictability of the amount.

a representative quantity

Emphasizes that the amount is indicative of a larger trend or sample.

an ordinary portion

Replaces "amount" with "portion", implying a standard serving or allotment.

a baseline quantity

Highlights that the amount serves as a reference point for comparison.

FAQs

How can I use "an average amount" in a sentence?

You can use "an average amount" to describe a typical quantity or measure, as in "The recipe calls for "an average amount" of salt" or "Students spend "an average amount" of time on their homework".

What are some alternatives to saying "an average amount"?

Instead of "an average amount", you could use phrases like "a typical quantity", "a standard measure", or "a moderate quantity" depending on the specific context.

Is it always accurate to rely on "an average amount"?

While "an average amount" provides a general benchmark, it's important to remember that averages can be misleading because they don't account for individual variations. Always consider the context and potential range of values.

What's the difference between "an average amount" and "the median amount"?

"An average amount" refers to the arithmetic mean, calculated by summing all values and dividing by the number of values. "The median amount" is the middle value when the data is ordered. The median is less sensitive to extreme values than the average.