limited number of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "limited number of" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to refer to a relatively small but large enough sample size, such as when describing a study or experiment. For example: "The study surveyed a limited number of participants to determine the effects of the new policy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It has limited resources, an amazingly limited number of people".

Vice

"We have a limited number of resources".

The New York Times - Health

They want a limited number of points.

The Guardian - Opinion

Marbach has a limited number of rooms.

The New York Times - Travel

Limited number of funded traineeships available.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Only a limited number of people knew about it".

The New York Times

We have a limited number of places available for readers.

The Guardian

"...there's a pretty limited number of motives... There's greed.

The New Yorker

"There's a limited number of possibilities," one official said.

The New York Times

There are a limited number of possible sexual acts.

The Guardian - Books

"I work a limited number of vines," he says.

The Guardian - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "limited number of", ensure the context clearly indicates what the limitation affects. For example, "a limited number of seats are available" is clearer than "seats are limited."

Common error

Avoid phrasing sentences passively when using "limited number of". Instead of "access is limited to a number of users", opt for the more direct "a limited number of users have access."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "limited number of" functions as a determiner phrase, specifically quantifying a noun. It indicates that the quantity of something is restricted. Ludwig AI confirms this with numerous examples showing its use in various contexts to describe restrictions or finite amounts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Academia

41%

Science

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "limited number of" is a grammatically sound and versatile expression used to indicate a restricted quantity or amount. As Ludwig AI highlights, it's frequently found in news, academic, and scientific contexts. When using this phrase, clarity is key: ensure the context clearly defines what is being limited. Alternatives such as "small quantity of" or "restricted amount of" can provide nuanced emphasis. By avoiding passive voice and providing clear context, you can effectively communicate the notion of a restricted quantity using "limited number of".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

small quantity of

Replaces "number" with "quantity", emphasizing the amount rather than count.

restricted amount of

Uses "restricted" instead of "limited", stressing the constraint.

finite quantity of

Substitutes "limited" with "finite", highlighting the fixed nature of the amount.

a few

A more concise and informal way to express a small number.

limited supply of

Focuses on the availability of something, using "supply" instead of "number".

certain number of

Indicates a specific, though perhaps unspecified, quantity.

select few

Highlights the exclusivity or special nature of the small number.

handful of

Implies a very small and easily manageable quantity.

narrow selection of

Emphasizes the restricted variety or choice available.

modest amount of

Indicates a small and unpretentious quantity.

FAQs

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

You can use "limited number of" to describe a restricted quantity or availability. For example, "There are a "limited number of" tickets available for the concert."

What phrases are similar to "limited number of"?

Similar phrases include "small quantity of", "restricted amount of", or "finite quantity of", each emphasizing the restriction in a slightly different way.

Is it better to use "limited number" or "small number"?

Both are correct, but "limited number" often implies a restriction or constraint, while "small number of" simply indicates a quantity that is not large. The best choice depends on the specific context.

What does "limited number of" imply?

The phrase "limited number of" suggests that the quantity of something is not only small but also subject to some kind of constraint, whether it be due to scarcity, policy, or another factor.