an equitable number of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an equitable number of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing fairness or justice in the distribution of quantities or resources. Example: "The committee aimed to ensure that there was an equitable number of representatives from each community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

The future of our nation depends less on an equitable number of "red state" students attending elite universities than on ensuring that every student in America has the financial opportunity to attend community college or that the country's public universities have the federal support to abate tuition spikes.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Many United Nations agencies have employment targets to ensure equitable numbers of employees from various countries, though they use a variety of formulas to calculate geographic representation.

The New York Times

It is not obvious, though, that an equitable distribution of health workers would entail an equal number of health workers per capita across regions or districts.

Human Resources for Health

But there are other factors to consider, including that for the most radical leaders of the Muslim world — and their numbers are not dwindling — settling the Israel question does not mean an equitable division of land between Israel and Palestine.

The New York Times

This constitutional clause resembles and may have been modelled on South Africa's constitution, which also prescribes equitable treatment for a large number of languages.

The Economist

Mr. Smith said that he thought that "once a fair and equitable settlement is reached a large number of the Catholic population will support it," including with financial donations.

The New York Times

It's about an equitable distribution of the money.

The Guardian - Sport

And, in a deregulated market, what will guarantee an equitable distribution of those pills?

The New Yorker

They must pass laws ensuring an equitable division of the country's oil wealth.

The New York Times

We believe this is an equitable way of ensuring that the distribution of the GST".

The Guardian

"We're working very hard for an equitable resolution of these issues".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an equitable number of", ensure the context clearly defines what constitutes 'equitable' in that specific situation. This might involve considering factors beyond simple numerical equality.

Common error

Avoid using "an equitable number of" when you strictly mean an equal number. Equitable implies fairness, which might necessitate unequal distributions to compensate for existing disparities.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an equitable number of" functions as a determiner phrase modifying a noun. It indicates that the quantity or amount being referred to is considered fair or just in its distribution or allocation. Ludwig AI confirms this, demonstrating its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

30%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

4%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "an equitable number of" is grammatically correct and conveys the concept of a fair and just quantity, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It is best used when discussing distributions where strict equality may not achieve fairness, considering factors beyond mere numerical values. While the phrase isn't highly frequent, it finds application across news, science, and formal business contexts. Remember to differentiate it from "an equal number of", which simply denotes sameness. The related phrases provide alternatives that emphasize specific aspects of fairness, such as justice, proportion or suitability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a fair number of

Replaces "equitable" with "fair", implying impartiality and justice but potentially less emphasis on strict numerical equality.

a just number of

Similar to "fair number", but emphasizes moral rightness and deservedness in the allocation.

a proportionate amount of

Focuses on maintaining a specific ratio or percentage relative to a whole.

an appropriate quantity of

Highlights the suitability and adequacy of the amount in a given situation.

a balanced amount of

Emphasizes equilibrium and even distribution among different elements.

an impartial quantity of

Highlights the lack of bias or favoritism in the amount provided.

a reasonable number of

Suggests that the quantity is sensible and not excessive or deficient.

a commensurate amount of

Implies that the amount is in direct proportion or correspondence with something else.

an adequate quantity of

Focuses on whether the amount is sufficient to meet the requirements or needs.

an unbiased number of

Stresses the absence of prejudice or preconceived notions in determining the quantity.

FAQs

How can I use "an equitable number of" in a sentence?

Use "an equitable number of" to describe a quantity that is fair and just, especially when strict equality might not achieve fairness. For example: "The council aimed to allocate "an equitable number of" resources to each district, considering their varying needs".

What's the difference between "an equitable number of" and "an equal number of"?

"An equitable number of" implies fairness and justice, potentially involving unequal distribution to address disparities. "An equal number of" simply means the same quantity for each recipient, without considering fairness.

What are some alternatives to "an equitable number of"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "a fair number of", "a just number of", or "a proportionate amount of".

Is "an equitable number of" always the best choice?

Not always. If strict equality is the goal and context, "an equal number of" is more appropriate. Use ""an equitable number of"" when fairness requires considering individual circumstances or needs, potentially leading to unequal distribution.