at a number of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at a number of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something occurs or is applicable in several instances or locations. Example: "The study was conducted at a number of universities across the country to gather diverse data."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

HMRC looks at a number of tests.

The Guardian - Money

Your anger may be targeted at a number of sources.

University of California, Berkeley

He previously worked at a number of PR agencies.

The Guardian

But leaders at a number of law firms remain undaunted.

The New York Times

The project worked at a number of levels.

The Guardian - Opinion

Lists sample prices at a number of barber shops.

The New Yorker

They looked at a number of places in Westchester.

The New York Times

X+Y performed robustly at a number of indie cinemas.

The Guardian - Film

"We are looking at a number of different alternatives.

The Guardian

"We're looking at a number of different options," he said.

The Guardian

I would look at a number of things.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "at a number of" when you want to convey that something happens in multiple instances or locations without specifying an exact quantity. It suggests more than a few, but not necessarily a large amount.

Common error

While "at a number of" is generally acceptable, consider using more precise language in formal writing. For example, instead of saying "The study was conducted at a number of universities", you could state "The study was conducted at five universities" for increased clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at a number of" functions as a prepositional phrase acting as a determiner, modifying a noun to indicate quantity. It suggests that something exists or occurs in multiple instances without specifying the exact count. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Academia

32%

Science

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "at a number of" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to indicate that something occurs in multiple instances or locations. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability across various contexts. While it is generally acceptable, more precise language may be preferred in formal writing. Its frequent appearance in news, academic, and scientific sources highlights its broad applicability. Related alternatives such as "in several instances" or "in various locations" can be used to achieve similar meanings with slight variations in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in several instances

Replaces "number" with "instances", emphasizing the occurrence of something.

in various locations

Focuses on the different places where something happens, instead of the quantity.

on numerous occasions

Highlights the repeated nature of an event, replacing "number" with "occasions".

at multiple points

Emphasizes specific instances or moments when something occurs.

in a variety of

Focuses on the diversity or range of items or situations.

at several junctures

Highlights particular moments or stages.

across diverse settings

Highlights the varied environments or contexts.

at different levels

Focuses on varying degrees or aspects.

in many cases

Highlights the frequency of specific situations or occurrences.

on multiple fronts

Focuses on different areas or aspects of an activity.

FAQs

How can I use "at a number of" in a sentence?

You can use "at a number of" to indicate that something occurs in multiple instances or locations. For example, "Tests were conducted "at a number of" different strain amplitudes" or "The Maori language is taught "at a number of" schools".

What phrases are similar to "at a number of"?

Similar phrases include "in several", "at various", or "on numerous occasions" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to use a specific number instead of "at a number of"?

In formal or technical writing, using a specific number is often preferable for clarity and precision. However, "at a number of" is appropriate when the exact quantity is unknown or unimportant.

What's the difference between "at a number of" and "many"?

"At a number of" suggests more than a few but not an overwhelming amount, while "many" implies a larger quantity. The choice depends on the desired level of specificity and emphasis.