left a number of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "left a number of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating that something has resulted in a quantity of items or issues remaining or being created. Example: "The storm left a number of fallen trees in the park."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

A firefight between African Union peacekeepers and the Shabab in a Mogadishu neighborhood about a week ago left a number of Burundian peacekeepers, possibly dozens, dead.

The New York Times

The request left a number of professional connoisseurs stumped.

The New Yorker

Means left a number of pieces uncompleted when she died.

Encyclopedia Britannica

We left a number of guys on base, as did they.

The New York Times - Sports

It offered the most complete account of Mr. Reid's actions, but left a number of questions unanswered.

The New York Times

Given the narrowness of the question before the court, the decision today left a number of questions unanswered.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

It left a number of issues open: How was a situation of strength to be defined?

The New York Times - Books

But experts say the bomber, so far elusive, left a number of key clues behind.

Vice

Pollock left a number of paintings from that period that are in plain imitation of Benton.

The New Yorker

The disastrous mission also left a number of the peacekeepers traumatized.

The New York Times

A gold iPhone has left a number of us scratching our heads.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "left a number of", ensure the context clearly indicates what was caused or remained as a result. For example, "The negotiations left a number of issues unresolved."

Common error

Avoid using "left a number of" when a more precise quantification is possible and relevant. For example, instead of "The accident left a number of people injured", specify "The accident left 15 people injured" if that information is available.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "left a number of" functions as a verb phrase acting as a transitional phrase to introduce a consequence of an action or event. It indicates that something has resulted in multiple items or issues. Ludwig's examples showcase its versatility in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Encyclopedias

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "left a number of" is a versatile and commonly used expression to indicate that something has resulted in multiple issues, items, or consequences. As Ludwig confirms, it is grammatically correct and frequently found in news, encyclopedias, and scientific sources. While suitable for a range of contexts, specifying an exact quantity is preferable when precision is required. Be mindful of the register, opting for more precise language in highly formal settings. This phrase functions as a transitional element, linking an event to its resulting effects.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

resulted in several

Focuses on the outcome or consequence of an action, highlighting the quantity of the result.

created a quantity of

Emphasizes the act of generating or producing a certain amount of something.

produced several

Highlights the output or yield of a process, indicating a specific number.

caused multiple

Focuses on the role of something as the reason or origin of numerous effects.

generated various

Indicates the creation of a diverse range or collection of items or effects.

led to a range of

Highlights the progression from one event to a diverse set of outcomes.

precipitated a series of

Suggests a sudden or rapid occurrence that triggered a sequence of events.

brought about numerous

Emphasizes the act of causing something to happen or exist in large quantities.

instigated several

Highlights the initiation or commencement of multiple actions or events.

occasioned a variety of

Indicates that something has given rise to a diverse assortment of results.

FAQs

How can I use "left a number of" in a sentence?

Use "left a number of" to indicate that something resulted in multiple items, issues, or effects. For example, "The storm "left a number of" trees uprooted".

What are some alternatives to using "left a number of"?

Alternatives include "resulted in several", "caused multiple", or "generated various", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to specify an exact quantity instead of saying "left a number of"?

Specifying an exact number is preferable when the precise quantity is known and relevant. Using "left a number of" is suitable when the exact count is unknown or unimportant.

How formal is the phrase "left a number of"?

"Left a number of" is suitable for neutral and professional contexts. In highly formal or scientific writing, consider more precise or technical alternatives.