certain numbers of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "certain numbers of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to an unspecified quantity or amount of numbers in a general sense. Example: "The study found that certain numbers of participants reported feeling more engaged in the program."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 human-written examples

The commercial model is based on offering advertisers certain numbers of magazines being delivered through certain numbers of letterboxes.

The Guardian

In the boundary, the target is identified if certain numbers of lines exist.

Acta Astronautica

Pricing is similar to that on airlines: certain numbers of tickets are set aside for each price tier.

The New York Times - Travel

He never even mentioned that the plan covered only certain dosages per pill and certain numbers of pills a month.

The New York Times

Traditionally, television networks guarantee advertisers that they will deliver a certain numbers of viewers in specific demographic groups.

The New York Times

In the 1930's most pollsters used quota sampling, in which interviewers are asked to find and question certain numbers of people who match various profiles.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

"A certain number of ships can only process a certain number of people," he said.

The Guardian

"We condition them to pitch a certain number of innings.

The New York Times - Sports

A certain number of them are going to get away.

The New York Times

"This bet is founded on a certain number of risks".

The New York Times

"I want to play in a certain number of matches.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "certain numbers of", ensure the context makes it clear what kind of numbers you are referring to. For instance, specify if you mean "certain numbers of participants" or "certain numbers of days" to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

While grammatically sound, "certain numbers of" can sound vague in formal writing. Consider using more precise language, such as "a specific quantity of" or providing an actual range when possible to enhance clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "certain numbers of" functions as a determiner phrase, modifying a noun to indicate an unspecified quantity. As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

39%

News & Media

37%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Academia

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "certain numbers of" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to indicate an unspecified quantity. According to Ludwig AI, it's correct and usable in written English. While versatile, it's important to consider the context and audience. In more formal settings, using more precise language may be beneficial. The phrase appears most frequently in scientific and news media sources, indicating a relatively neutral register. Remember to clarify the type of numbers you're referring to for better clarity. More precise options like "specific amounts of" might be more suitable in certain contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a specific number of

Replaces "certain" with "specific", highlighting the exactness of the number, even if unknown.

specific amounts of

Replaces "numbers" with the broader term "amounts", indicating quantity without being limited to numerical values.

particular quantities of

Substitutes "certain" with "particular", emphasizing the distinct nature of the quantities.

selected quantities of

Indicates that the amounts or numbers have been chosen for a reason, implying a selection process.

a definite quantity of

Uses "definite" to suggest a known, though possibly unstated, amount.

individual quantities of

Focuses on each element's unique amount in a collection.

various amounts of

Highlights variability in quantity but doesn't specify the nature of being numerical.

some quantities of

Emphasizes an unspecified amount of something, broadening the scope from just numbers.

a set of

Focuses on grouping elements together, implying a collection of items.

a range of

Highlights variability within a minimum and maximum quantity or scope.

FAQs

How can I use "certain numbers of" in a sentence?

Use "certain numbers of" to indicate an unspecified quantity or amount of numbers in a general sense. For example: "The study found that certain numbers of participants reported feeling more engaged in the program."

What phrases can I use instead of "certain numbers of"?

Alternatives include "specific amounts of", "particular quantities of", or "a definite quantity of" depending on the context.

Is it more formal to use "certain numbers of" or "a specific number of"?

"A specific number of" is generally considered more formal and precise than "certain numbers of", though both are grammatically correct.

What's the difference between "certain numbers of" and "various numbers of"?

"Certain numbers of" implies a selection or condition associated with those numbers, while "various numbers of" simply indicates a range or variety of quantities.