definitive number

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "definitive number" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific, conclusive, or final quantity or figure in a given context. Example: "The definitive number of participants in the study was confirmed to be 150."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

"At this time we don't have a definitive number".

The New York Times

Is there a definitive number of hours in a work week, in a work day?

The New York Times

Now Mr. Hirst's London company Science Ltd. will finally provide a definitive number.

The New York Times - Arts

But a definitive number will not be known until mid-June, when Cablevision reports to YES on business in April.

The New York Times - Sports

There have been so many coups in Thailand's history that scholars have not arrived at a definitive number.

The New York Times

Even though the scouts were sitting together, using the same make of radar gun, there was no definitive number.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

There are no definitive numbers on how many people use Web-based videoconferencing.

The New York Times

Many news organizations have fewer people in Iraq than they once did, though no definitive numbers are available.

The New York Times

There are no definitive numbers, but in 1995 the Child Welfare League of America estimated that 4percentt of all foster care adoptions were transracial.

The New York Times

While definitive numbers are hard to come by, the incidence of violence in care facilities appears to be going up.

The New York Times

While there are no definitive numbers on how many gay and lesbian families exist, people who work with them say there has been something of a baby boom.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When seeking clarity and precision, use "definitive number" to indicate a figure that is both accurate and conclusive. For instance, in research papers or financial reports, clearly stating the "definitive number" ensures transparency and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "definitive number" when discussing projections or estimates that inherently involve uncertainty. Instead, use terms like "projected figures" or "estimated values" to reflect the speculative nature of the data.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "definitive number" primarily functions as a noun phrase that describes a specific quantity or count. It indicates that the number is precise, confirmed, and not subject to change. Ludwig confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

25%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "definitive number" is a commonly used noun phrase indicating a precise and confirmed quantity. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and finds frequent application in news and media and scientific contexts, ensuring clarity and accuracy. While interchangeable with phrases like "exact figure" or "precise quantity", it's important to avoid its use in speculative contexts. Ludwig AI analysis confirms the phrase's appropriate use across various authoritative sources, reinforcing its value in formal and professional communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exact figure

Replaces 'definitive' with 'exact', emphasizing precision.

precise quantity

Substitutes 'number' with 'quantity', highlighting the amount aspect.

conclusive amount

Uses 'conclusive' to replace 'definitive', stressing finality.

certain quantity

Replaces 'definitive' with 'certain', focusing on the lack of doubt.

specific figure

Uses 'specific' instead of 'definitive', highlighting a particular value.

final tally

Replaces 'number' with 'tally', suggesting a count or sum.

absolute count

Uses 'absolute' to emphasize the completeness of the count.

precise total

Combines 'precise' and 'total' to express an accurate sum.

established value

Replaces 'definitive number' with 'established value', indicating something officially set.

verified amount

Uses 'verified' instead of 'definitive', focusing on confirmation.

FAQs

How can I use "definitive number" in a sentence?

You can use "definitive number" to refer to a specific and confirmed quantity, such as: "The "definitive number" of attendees was 350." or "We need to determine the "definitive number" of errors before proceeding."

What is a good alternative to "definitive number"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "exact figure", "precise quantity", or "conclusive amount" to convey a similar meaning.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "definitive number"?

Use "definitive number" when you have a confirmed, precise count or value. Avoid using it when the number is an estimate or projection. If the number is not final, consider using "preliminary number" instead.

Is "definitive number" interchangeable with "approximate number"?

No, "definitive number" and "approximate number" have opposite meanings. The former implies a precise, confirmed value, while the latter indicates an estimated or rough value. Using them interchangeably would be incorrect.