correct the number

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'correct the number' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it anytime you want to convey the idea of fixing a numerical figure. For example, "I need to double-check the calculations - please correct the number."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Correction: This story was updated to correct the number of cities that signed onto the compact.

The Washington Post

This article was also amended to correct the number of Uncommon Schools.

The Guardian

*This post was changed to correct the number of names on the 9/11 memorial.

The New Yorker

*This post was updated to correct the number of nuclear powers.

The New Yorker

This article was amended on 19 January 2017 to correct the number of trains to Carmarthen.

The Guardian - Money

The standfirst of this blog was amended on 22 September to correct the number of decades.

The Guardian - Music

* This post was amended to correct the number of Chinese authors who appeared at BookExpo America.

The New Yorker

This article was amended on 6 September 2015 to correct the number of Labour mayoral candidates.

The Guardian

This story was updated to correct the number of total students involved in the studies, 327.

The Washington Post

Update: to correct the number of detainees: eight were taken; one was later released; seven remain.

The Guardian

* This post was amended to correct the number of Chinese authors who appeared at BookExpo America.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When reporting data, double-check your sources and calculations, then use "correct the number" when you find and fix a mistake. This ensures transparency and builds trust with your audience.

Common error

Avoid using "correct the number" when you are providing an estimate or approximation. Instead, reserve it for situations where there is a definite, verifiable error in reported data.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "correct the number" functions as an imperative verb phrase, instructing the action of rectifying a numerical value. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent use in contexts where accuracy is paramount.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "correct the number" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression, primarily found in news and scientific contexts. As Ludwig AI validates, it serves to indicate the action of rectifying a numerical value and maintaining accuracy. Alternatives such as "rectify the number" or "adjust the number" can offer nuanced variations, but the core intent remains the same: to ensure numerical precision. This phrase, while neutral in tone, is best reserved for instances where verifiable errors need to be addressed, rather than for estimations or approximations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

rectify the number

Replaces "correct" with "rectify", emphasizing the action of setting something right.

rectify the figure

Replace "number" with "figure" which is a synonym in the context of numerical data

adjust the number

Uses "adjust" to suggest a minor alteration to make the number more accurate.

adjust the figure

Replace "number" with "figure" which is a synonym in the context of numerical data while also changing the verb to "adjust" to suggest a minor alteration

amend the number

Employs "amend" to indicate a formal correction or improvement to the number.

revise the number

Replaces "correct" with "revise", suggesting a review and subsequent correction.

fix the number

Uses "fix" to indicate a straightforward correction of the number.

update the number

Emphasizes bringing the number to its most current and accurate state.

verify the number

Shifts focus to confirming the accuracy of the number rather than directly correcting it.

ensure the accuracy of the number

This option focuses on guaranteeing the precision of the figure, shifting the emphasis from the action of correcting to ensuring correctness.

FAQs

How can I use "correct the number" in a sentence?

You can use "correct the number" when you identify and fix an error in a previously stated figure. For example, "The initial report was inaccurate; we need to correct the number before publishing."

What are some alternatives to "correct the number"?

You can use alternatives such as "rectify the number", "adjust the number", or "amend the number" depending on the context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "correct the number" in formal writing?

Yes, "correct the number" is appropriate for formal writing, especially in reports, articles, or academic papers where accuracy is crucial. It clearly conveys the action of fixing a numerical error.

What's the difference between "correct the number" and "estimate the number"?

"Correct the number" implies fixing a known error, while "estimate the number" involves making an informed guess when the exact figure is unknown. They are used in different situations with opposite meanings.