an input

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an input" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a piece of information or data that is provided for processing or consideration, often in contexts related to technology, computing, or feedback. Example: "Please provide an input for the system to analyze the data effectively."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It's giving you an input orientation.

The New York Times

But it is an input, not an output, measure.

The Guardian

"It is short-sighted if you are an input supplier.

The Guardian

Research spending is an input, not an output.

The Economist

"It felt like AB was having an input anyway.

Independent

It requires an input of rocket fuel-style energy or it seems thin and dowdy.

The Guardian

There is no opportunity for students or staff to have an input on such decisions.

The Guardian - Opinion

Such an input would have a knock-on effect, however, as Green acknowledged.

The Guardian

The filters would take participation in such a program as an input.

The New York Times

I was not given some key papers in sufficient time to have an input.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Maria has an input in everything she wears," said a spokesman for Nike.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an input" in technical writing, clearly define what constitutes the input and its expected format to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "an input" without specifying its nature. For example, instead of saying "the system requires an input", specify "the system requires an input file in CSV format".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an input" functions primarily as a noun phrase, with "an" being an article specifying a single instance of something being inputted. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

44%

News & Media

42%

Formal & Business

14%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an input" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase, particularly within scientific, news, and business contexts. As Ludwig AI highlights, it refers to a single instance of data, information, or contribution provided for a process or system. When using "an input", ensure clarity by specifying its nature and format. Alternatives such as ""a contribution"", ""a piece of data"", or ""a suggestion"" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. By understanding its function, purpose, and register, you can effectively incorporate "an input" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a contribution

Focuses on the act of giving or adding something, rather than the specific item itself.

a piece of data

Emphasizes the informational aspect of the input, particularly in technical contexts.

a suggestion

Highlights the advisory or recommendation aspect of the input.

a factor

Emphasizes the role of the input as one element among many influencing an outcome.

a consideration

Focuses on the thoughtful examination or evaluation of the input.

a variable

Highlights the input as a quantity that can change or be changed, especially in mathematical or scientific contexts.

a parameter

Emphasizes the input as a defining characteristic or element of a system or process.

a submission

Implies a formal presentation of the input, often in response to a request.

a component

Highlights the role of the input as a constituent part of a larger whole.

a response

Emphasizes the input as a reaction or answer to something.

FAQs

How can I use "an input" in a sentence?

You can use "an input" to refer to data, feedback, or contributions provided for a process or system. For example, "The algorithm requires "an input" of numerical data to generate predictions."

What are some alternatives to using "an input"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "a contribution", "a piece of data", or "a suggestion". Choose the alternative that best reflects the specific meaning you intend to convey.

Is it better to say "input" or "an input"?

Use "an input" when referring to a single, countable instance of something being inputted. Use "input" without the article when referring to the general concept or type of data, or when it functions as an adjective (e.g., "input data").

What's the difference between "an input" and "a factor"?

"An input" refers specifically to something that is entered into a system or process. "A factor" is a more general term for something that contributes to a result or outcome, whether or not it's formally entered into a system.