an equal number

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an equal number" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to two or more quantities that are the same in amount or value. Example: "The survey results showed an equal number of participants from both age groups."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Almost an equal number of media people," he said.

The New York Times

Probably, it was born with an equal number of each.

The Economist

But almost immediately Republicans began demanding an equal number of seats on the committees.

The New York Times

There are an equal number of watchfaces to choose from too.

The Guardian - Tech

"I handle an equal number of emotional and medical cases," she said.

The New York Times - Style

They can't be lumped together and traded for an equal number of other writers.

The New York Times - Magazine

Pipe out an equal number of 3/4-inch-long conical shaped "stems".

The New York Times - Magazine

The watchers plan to expand soon with an equal number in the subways and parks.

The New York Times

That would mean an equal number of committee seats and maybe even co-chairmanships of committees.

The New York Times

Almost an equal number -- many of the same people -- do not have access to clean water.

The New York Times

Smith conducted six face-to-face interviews with an equal number of journalists and media officers.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an equal number", ensure that the context clearly defines what the numbers refer to. For example, specify "an equal number of men and women" rather than just "an equal number".

Common error

Avoid using "an equal number" when the context implies approximation rather than exact equality. In such cases, alternatives like "roughly the same" or "nearly equivalent" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an equal number" functions as a determiner phrase specifying a quantity that is the same as another. Ludwig AI indicates its correct usage in various contexts, underscoring its role in expressing equivalence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an equal number" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to indicate that two or more quantities are the same. Ludwig AI’s analysis of numerous real-world examples reveals that it is frequently found in news, scientific writing, and general discourse. While maintaining a neutral register, the phrase finds frequent use in comparisons and distributions, as it underscores balance and parity. To ensure clarity, specify the entities being compared. Though interchangeable with alternatives such as "the same number", "an equivalent amount" or "a similar quantity", each substitute has its own nuance that could make it contextually preferable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the same quantity

Replaces "number" with "quantity" focusing on amount rather than count.

an equivalent amount

Substitutes "number" with "amount" to emphasize the total.

a similar quantity

Indicates near equivalence rather than exact equality.

the equivalent count

Replaces "number" with "count" adding emphasis on counting

a comparable figure

Uses "figure" to represent a numerical value that's similar.

the same proportion

Highlights the ratio being equal rather than the absolute number.

a parallel volume

Implies a matching size or extent using "volume".

matching figures

Highlights that the numbers are alike.

a corresponding amount

Indicates that the amounts are in direct relation to each other and equal.

a like total

Emphasizes that totals or sums are identical.

FAQs

How can I use "an equal number" in a sentence?

You can use "an equal number" to show that two groups or quantities are the same size. For example, "We need "an equal number" of chairs on both sides of the table."

What phrases can I use instead of "an equal number"?

Alternatives include "the same amount", "an equivalent number", or "a similar quantity". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it more formal to use "an equal number" or "the same number"?

Both phrases are generally acceptable in most contexts. "The same number" is slightly more informal, while "an equal number" carries a slightly more precise or formal tone.

What's the difference between "an equal number" and "a similar number"?

"An equal number" indicates that quantities are exactly the same. "A similar number" suggests quantities are close but not identical. For example, if two classes have 25 students each, they have "an equal number" of students. If one has 25 and the other has 26, they have "a similar number" of students.