number of alternates

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "number of alternates" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the quantity of alternative options or substitutes available in a given context. Example: "The committee decided to increase the number of alternates for the event to ensure better representation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Why is the number of alternates important?

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

The hexagonal wurtzite structure ZnO can be simply described as a number of alternating planes composed of tetrahedrally coordinated O2− and Zn2+ ions, stacked alternately along the c-axis.

Nanoscale Research Letters

As far as we know, as a wurtzite structure, ZnO belongs to the P63mc space group, and it can be described as a number of alternating planes composed of tetrahedrally coordinated O2- and Zn2+ ions, staked alternately along the c-axis.

Nanoscale Research Letters

American Century also has stakes in a number of alternate trading systems, including Archipelago ECN.

The New York Times

The festival subsequently moved to a number of alternate Manhattan spaces; the name was contracted to MATA, but the mandate of providing exposure to emerging composers has continued.

The New York Times - Arts

The government's spokespeople have cited this finding as proof of a media conspiracy.However, Latinobarómetro itself offered a number of alternate explanations for its findings.

The Economist

Major corporations contemplating major building projects need precise programs, analyses of existing facilities and equipment, and a number of alternate schemes and proposals.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Scientific theory and philosophy suggest that an infinite number of alternate realities may be possible, and that a new universe is created at every decision-making juncture in our lives, no matter how small or significant.

The New York Times

This had its origins in a page of calligraphy he had drawn in a sketchbook in 1944, but the number of alternate characters needed to reproduce the swashes and ligatures – flourishes and combinations of otherwise clashing letters – could not be handled by early digitisation methods.

The Guardian - Arts

I enjoy singing "Take Me Out to the Ballgame," but not to the tune of 10 grand, and although I can't manage like Stengel or Torre, I managed to put together a number of alternate entertainment lineups for anyone who may be thinking of other ways to spend that $10,600.

The New York Times - Sports

"TV Licensing wants to make it as easy as possible for people to pay for a TV licence, and there are a number of alternate ways people can pay, including annual direct debit, direct debit instalments, weekly or monthly cash payments.

The Guardian - Money

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing the number of alternates, specify the context clearly to avoid ambiguity. For example, "the number of alternate routes" or "the number of alternate solutions".

Common error

Avoid assuming that "alternates" are always equivalent. Clearly define the criteria by which alternates are considered suitable, as they may vary in quality or applicability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "number of alternates" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It refers to the quantity of alternative options available. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

34%

News & Media

31%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "number of alternates" is a grammatically sound noun phrase used to express the quantity of available alternatives. Ludwig AI indicates that it is acceptable in written English. Although relatively rare, it appears across various domains, including science, news media, and encyclopedias. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the context of the alternates. Consider alternatives like "quantity of substitutes" or "amount of alternatives" for variety. While its meaning is straightforward, precision and context remain key to effectively use "number of alternates".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

quantity of substitutes

Focuses on the amount of replacements available.

amount of alternatives

Emphasizes the measure of different options.

count of replacements

Highlights the act of counting the available substitutes.

range of options

Indicates the breadth of choices.

variety of substitutes

Stresses the diversity among the alternatives.

pool of replacements

Suggests a collection from which substitutes can be drawn.

inventory of choices

Implies a list of available selections.

selection of options

Refers to the act of choosing from available alternatives.

scope of possibilities

Emphasizes the extent of potential alternatives.

supply of substitutes

Focuses on the available resource of replacements.

FAQs

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

You can use "number of alternates" to describe the quantity of alternative options or substitutes available. For example, "The design team proposed a high number of alternates, each with unique features."

What's a similar phrase to "number of alternates"?

Similar phrases include "quantity of substitutes", "amount of alternatives", or "count of replacements", depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "amount of alternates" instead of "number of alternates"?

While "amount of alternates" is understandable, "number of alternates" is grammatically more precise when referring to a countable quantity. "Amount" is better suited for uncountable nouns.

In what contexts is "number of alternates" commonly used?

"Number of alternates" is used in various contexts, including discussing project proposals, backup plans, or alternative routes. It's useful in situations where having multiple options is beneficial.