an odd number

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an odd number" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a number that is not divisible by two, typically in mathematical or numerical contexts. Example: "In the game, players must roll an odd number to advance to the next level."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"I like an odd number," Girardi said.

The New York Times - Sports

It's eternally an odd number.

Yale University

The number three is an odd number.

Yale University

Is Zero an Even or an Odd Number?

Britannica

(A letter will count as an odd number).

The New York Times

"I'm just thinking, it can be an odd number, too".

The New York Times - Magazine

West led the heart three, lowest from an odd number.

The New York Times

"It's kind of an odd number," Dr. Woloshin said.

The New York Times

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 there must have been an odd number before.

Yale University

So I want the shortest path with an odd number of edges.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

So, I'm going to have an odd number of letters here, therefore, odd number of edges.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an odd number" in technical writing, ensure the context clearly indicates whether you're referring to a mathematical property or a more general sense of peculiarity.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "an odd number" is always prime. While most prime numbers are odd, the number 9, for example, is odd but not prime.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an odd number" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as a subject or object within a sentence. Ludwig examples demonstrate its use in various contexts, from mathematical explanations to practical applications, consistent with Ludwig AI's assessment.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Academia

30%

Science

25%

News & Media

20%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

8%

Formal & Business

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an odd number" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe integers not divisible by two. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability across various contexts, notably in academia, science, and news media. While the phrase is generally straightforward, it's important to differentiate it from related concepts like prime numbers and to use it precisely, especially in technical contexts. Alternatives like "an uneven number" can be used, though "an odd number" remains the most prevalent and widely understood term.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an uneven number

Replaces "odd" with a synonym, maintaining the same mathematical concept.

a non-even number

Emphasizes the absence of evenness, preserving the original meaning.

a number not divisible by two

Provides a more explicit definition of "an odd number".

a prime number (except 2)

Focuses on a specific type of odd number with unique properties, except the number 2 which is even.

an indivisible number

Highlights the inability to divide the number evenly, altering the numerical concept.

a singular number

Emphasizes the uniqueness of the number, while remaining slightly similar.

a unique quantity

Focuses on the distinctiveness of the number, while remaining similar.

a strange number

Indicates the unusual nature of a numerical value, creating a different meaning.

an atypical count

Shifts the focus to the atypical aspect of the number, differing from the original.

an irregular figure

Describes the irregularity of the numerical representation, giving a new meaning.

FAQs

What's the difference between "an odd number" and "an even number"?

"An odd number" is any integer that, when divided by 2, leaves a remainder of 1. Conversely, "an even number" is an integer divisible by 2 with no remainder.

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

You can use "an odd number" in sentences like: "The committee decided to include "an odd number" of representatives to avoid tie votes." or "The experiment requires "an odd number" of participants for balanced data."

Are all odd numbers prime numbers?

No, not all odd numbers are prime. A prime number is a number greater than 1 that has no positive divisors other than 1 and itself. While most prime numbers are odd, composite odd numbers (like 9, 15, 21, etc.) are not prime.

What is "a non-even number"? Is it the same as "an odd number"?

Yes, "a non-even number" is another way of saying "an odd number". It simply means any integer that is not divisible by 2.