hold a number

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "hold a number" is correct and usable in written English.
It is generally used when referring to quantities or amounts, and is often used in a figurative sense. For example, "This store holds a number of unique items that you won't find anywhere else."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

I hold a number of course records.

Independent

Native American communities hold a number of annual events.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Witnesses hold a number of traditional Christian views but also many that are unique to them.

Britannica

Although he retired as chairman of Advent in September 2006, he continues to hold a number of senior positions.

The Guardian - Business

The European Championship failure prompted the KNVB to hold a number of meetings with Van Marwijk about what went wrong.

Independent

The Sackler will hold a number of celebrations and events that include music, storytelling, games and an expert symposium.

The New York Times - Arts

Lafayette – like other cities across the state – was set to hold a number of gatherings throughout the weekend and into next week.

The Guardian

She attended New Haven State Teachers College, taught for a time and went on to hold a number of posts in Hadassah and in other Zionist organizations.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Further, she has broad feet and "a space between her teeth that would hold a number-two pencil" — the tooth space even conjuring a kid's move of fitting a pencil there.

The New Yorker

Dr. Cavander holds a number of patents in decision algorithms.

Stanford University

It also holds a number of political fund-raisers.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "hold a number", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being held, whether it's positions, records, meetings, or other quantifiable items. Clarity is key to effective communication.

Common error

Avoid using "hold a number" when referring to abstract qualities or intangible concepts that cannot be quantified. For example, instead of saying 'The theory holds a number of complexities', consider 'The theory presents several complexities' to maintain accuracy and avoid vagueness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "hold a number" functions as a verb phrase, indicating possession or containment of multiple items or entities. It is used to describe what something contains or includes, as confirmed by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Encyclopedias

9%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Wiki

2%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "hold a number" is a versatile and frequently used expression to indicate that something contains or possesses multiple items or entities. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English. Its neutral register makes it appropriate for diverse contexts, including news, encyclopedias, and scientific writing. To ensure clarity, specify what exactly is being "held" and avoid using the phrase for abstract qualities. When a closer meaning is required, consider alternatives such as "conduct a number of" or "possess a quantity of" depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

conduct a number of

Focuses on the action of performing or carrying out a series of events or tasks, rather than possessing or containing them.

possess a quantity of

Emphasizes ownership or control over a specific amount or number of items.

maintain several

Highlights the act of keeping or preserving multiple items or positions.

organize numerous

Implies the arrangement or structuring of a large quantity of things.

manage a range of

Suggests handling or overseeing a diverse set of responsibilities or tasks.

accommodate multiple

Indicates the capacity to provide space or resources for a plurality of things.

feature various

Highlights the inclusion or presentation of a diverse array of elements.

offer a selection of

Implies providing a range of choices or options to choose from.

boast an array of

Emphasizes proudly displaying a diverse and impressive collection of items.

encompass several

Indicates including or surrounding a group of things as part of a larger whole.

FAQs

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

The phrase "hold a number" is used to indicate that something contains or possesses multiple instances of something else. For example: "The museum "holds a number" of ancient artifacts" or "The company "holds a number" of patents in this field".

What are some alternatives to "hold a number"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "hold a number" include phrases like "conduct a number of", "possess a quantity of", or "maintain several".

Is it grammatically correct to say "hold a number"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct to say "hold a number", as it follows standard English grammar rules. Ludwig AI also confirms the phrase is usable in written English.

What's the difference between "hold a number" and "contain a number"?

Both phrases imply that something includes multiple items, but "hold a number" often suggests a more active or deliberate possession, while "contain a number" simply indicates inclusion.