an extraordinary number of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an extraordinary number of" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe an amount or a quantity that is significantly greater than normal or expected. For example, "We received an extraordinary number of applications for the job."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

There were an extraordinary number of multiple amputations.

The Guardian

Now we have an extraordinary number of amazing female artists.

The Guardian - Arts

Also, an extraordinary number of parents passed away.

The New Yorker

It really is an extraordinary number of people.

The Guardian

Packed with an extraordinary number of stars, M60-UCD1 is an "ultra-compact dwarf galaxy".

Harvard University

In an extraordinary number of companies, unclear strategy and conflicting priorities obstruct performance.

Harvard Business Review

Trump's chaotic management style has also left an extraordinary number of vacant positions.

The Washington Post

She has renamed an extraordinary number of public structures in her family's memory.

The New York Times

E: Women, in all fields – whether mothers or not – still encounter an extraordinary number of obstacles.

The Guardian - Books

This, however, has yet to be understood by an extraordinary number of people.

The Guardian - Opinion

12.40am: There are an extraordinary number of flag-wavers lining the streets of Beijing tonight.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an extraordinary number of" to emphasize a surprisingly high quantity, creating a sense of wonder or concern depending on the context.

Common error

Avoid using "an extraordinary number of" in situations where the quantity is merely typical or expected. This phrase is most effective when the amount is genuinely surprising or noteworthy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an extraordinary number of" functions as a determiner phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a quantity that is significantly greater than what is considered normal or expected. As Ludwig AI confirm, it's considered correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

19%

Academia

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

2%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an extraordinary number of" is a determiner phrase used to emphasize a surprisingly large quantity. It is considered grammatically correct and appropriate for formal writing, particularly in news, scientific, and academic contexts. While the phrase is effective for highlighting significant amounts, it should be used judiciously to avoid overuse in mundane situations. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and provides numerous examples of its use across various reputable sources. Be mindful of the context and consider using related phrases like "a remarkable quantity of" or "a significant amount of" to add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a remarkable quantity of

Replaces "number" with "quantity", suitable when referring to something that can be measured rather than counted.

a significant amount of

Emphasizes the importance or impact of the quantity, rather than just its size.

a considerable quantity of

Highlights that the amount is worthy of attention or consideration.

an exceptional amount of

Stresses the unusual or superior nature of the quantity.

a vast quantity of

Focuses on the immensity or extensiveness of the amount.

a tremendous amount of

Emphasizes the great size or intensity of the quantity.

an unprecedented number of

Highlights that the quantity is novel or without prior example.

a staggering number of

Suggests that the quantity is surprisingly large or overwhelming.

a wealth of

Suggests an abundance of something valuable or desirable.

a multitude of

Indicates a large but indefinite number.

FAQs

How do I use "an extraordinary number of" in a sentence?

Use "an extraordinary number of" to describe a quantity that is surprisingly or remarkably large. For example, "An extraordinary number of people attended the event."

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

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "a significant amount of", "a considerable quantity of", or "a remarkable quantity of" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it appropriate to use "an extraordinary number of" in formal writing?

Yes, "an extraordinary number of" is suitable for formal writing when you need to emphasize that a quantity is surprisingly large. However, ensure that the tone remains appropriate for the specific context.

What's the difference between "an extraordinary number of" and "a large number of"?

"An extraordinary number of" implies that the quantity is not just large, but surprisingly or exceptionally so. "A large number of" simply indicates that the quantity is greater than average.