leave a number

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "leave a number" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when asking someone to provide their contact number, typically in a context where communication is needed. Example: "If you have any questions, please leave a number where I can reach you."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

* Leave a number.

The New York Times

Why didn't the caller from the airport leave a number?

The New York Times

The findings leave a number of mysteries still open.

The New York Times - Health

Even a modest increase could leave a number of low-lying nations uninhabitable.

The New York Times

A woman left a message on his answering machine but neglected to leave a number.

The New Yorker

"I was asked to leave a number of times," she said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

27 human-written examples

She left a number.

The New Yorker

She leaves a number of cousins.

The Guardian

The request left a number of professional connoisseurs stumped.

The New Yorker

Means left a number of pieces uncompleted when she died.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Tony, now a contractor, had left a number for Guy to call.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When asking someone to "leave a number", specify the context (e.g., for callbacks, emergencies) to ensure they provide the correct contact information.

Common error

Don't assume that when someone "leaves a number", it's their preferred or primary contact method. Always confirm if it's the best way to reach them for timely communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "leave a number" primarily functions as an imperative, requesting someone to provide their contact information. Ludwig shows it's typically used when direct communication is needed for follow-up or further assistance.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "leave a number" is a grammatically sound and commonly understood request for contact information. As Ludwig AI confirms, it serves primarily as an imperative, aiming to facilitate future communication. While applicable in various contexts, it is most frequently encountered in news media and scientific publications. When using the phrase, ensure the context is clear to avoid ambiguity. Alternative phrases, such as "provide a number", can offer subtle variations in formality or emphasis. Overall, "leave a number" is a practical and efficient way to request contact details, contributing to clear and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

provide a phone number

Focuses on the action of giving a phone number for contact.

share your contact details

Broader, includes other contact methods besides just a number.

give a call-back number

Specifically requests a number for someone to call back.

offer a telephone number

More formal way of asking someone to provide their number.

submit a contact phone

Suggests a more formal submission, perhaps on a form.

include your digits

Informal way to say provide your phone number

furnish a number to reach you

Formal, emphasizes availability to be reached.

impart your phone digits

Rarely used, more old-fashioned way of saying provide your phone number

communicate your contact info

Focuses on communicating in general, not specifically a number.

let them know how to reach you

A broader way to invite to share contact information

FAQs

How can I politely ask someone to "leave a number"?

You can politely request someone to "leave a number" by saying, "Please "provide a number" where you can be reached" or "Kindly "leave your contact number" for follow-up".

Is it correct to say "leave a number" instead of "leave your number"?

Yes, both phrases are acceptable. "Leave a number" implies leaving any contact number, while "leave your number" suggests leaving their specific number. The choice depends on the context.

What does it mean when someone says they forgot to "leave a number"?

It means they omitted providing their contact number when leaving a message or other form of communication, making it impossible to contact them back directly. They should "share contact details" to solve the situation.

In what situations is it appropriate to ask someone to "leave a number"?

It's appropriate to ask someone to "leave a number" when you need to contact them later, such as for callbacks, follow-ups, or in case of emergencies. This is most often the case in professional or service-oriented contexts or when you "give a callback number".