an exact number

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an exact number" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to describe an exact numerical value, for example: "I know the exact number of books in the library—300."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

It offers an exact number: 109.

The New York Times

MARIO ANDRETTI won't give an exact number.

The New York Times

It's another to put an exact number on it.

The Guardian - Opinion

(Ford declined to give an exact number of battery replacements).

The New York Times

General Abizaid declined to give an exact number of potential troop cuts.

The New York Times

With jelly beans, there is an exact number against which to compare guesses.

The New York Times - Arts

We have thousands of names, but I cannot give you an exact number".

The New York Times

We have not come up with an exact number of suspects.

The Guardian

The party is not, however, likely to put an exact number in its manifesto.

The Guardian

It's hard to put an exact number on the suggestions that are purely for fun.

The Guardian - Opinion

He would not give an exact number, but said the number was "dozens" more.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an exact number" when you want to emphasize the precision and accuracy of a numerical value. This phrase is suitable when the quantity is known and quantifiable without approximation.

Common error

Don't use "an exact number" if the situation calls for an estimation or a range. Stating an exact number when only an estimate is possible can mislead or appear overly assertive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an exact number" functions primarily as a determiner modifying a noun, indicating a specific and precise quantity. It emphasizes accuracy and is used when a precise figure is known or required. Ludwig AI confirms the common usage of this phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

26%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "an exact number" is a common and grammatically correct way to specify a precise quantity. Ludwig AI confirms its frequent usage across various domains, particularly in News & Media and Science. While "an exact number" is appropriate when precision is necessary, it's important to avoid using it when an estimate or approximation would suffice. Related phrases like "a precise figure" or "a specific amount" can provide alternative ways to express similar meanings. In summary, use "an exact number" when you need to communicate a specific and accurate numerical value.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a precise figure

Focuses on the numerical value being accurate.

a specific amount

Emphasizes the definiteness of the quantity.

an accurate count

Highlights the correctness of the enumeration.

a definite quantity

Stresses that the quantity is clearly determined.

a particular value

Shifts focus to the specific numerical representation.

a concrete total

Highlights that the number is real and tangible.

a fixed quantity

Emphasizes that quantity is set or unchangeable.

a precise measurement

Focuses on the act of accurately measuring quantity.

a determined number

Highlights the number was discovered after some consideration.

a quantifiable figure

Focuses on expressing the figure in numbers

FAQs

How do I use "an exact number" in a sentence?

Use "an exact number" when you want to specify a precise quantity or amount. For example, "The recipe calls for "an exact number" of 3 cups of flour."

What are some alternatives to using "an exact number"?

You can use alternatives such as "precise figure", "specific amount", or "accurate count" depending on the context.

Is it always necessary to provide "an exact number"?

No, providing "an exact number" is not always necessary. If an approximation or estimate is sufficient, avoid stating an exact value. In some situations, an estimate is more practical and appropriate.

What's the difference between "an exact number" and "an approximate number"?

"An exact number" refers to a precise and accurate quantity, while "an approximate number" is an estimate or close-to value. They represent opposite levels of precision.