number of characteristics

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "number of characteristics" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the quantity or variety of traits or features that something possesses. Example: "The study examined the number of characteristics that influence consumer behavior."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"We have a number of characteristics for vocals," he continues.

The New York Times - Magazine

All group insurance plans share a number of characteristics.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Facebook posts can now be directed with unsettling specificity to users based on any number of characteristics, including age, sex, political affiliation and – crucially – location.

The Guardian

So how do you hire now? A. The people I want to hire share a number of characteristics.

The New York Times

According to these foreign commentators, this economic performance stems from a number of characteristics typical of the Dutch economic order.

The Economist

Now, Blitz spirit combines a number of characteristics that are thought to be quintessentially British: stoicism and phlegm, taking things on the chin, knuckling down to business, co-operating instead of whining - you know the kind of thing.

The Guardian

It's no coincidence that the device shares a number of characteristics with the robot vacuum.

TechCrunch

That said, Zynga already shares a number of characteristics in common with gambling companies.

TechCrunch

A number of characteristics allow to typify the platform provider.

European Transport Research Review

Qualitatively, these fuels share a number of characteristics.

Combustion and Flame

Atlassian has a number of characteristics that may have made it not merely palatable to investors, but enticing.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider replacing "number of characteristics" with more specific terms like "features", "attributes", or "qualities" to enhance clarity and precision.

Common error

Avoid using "number of characteristics" as a placeholder. Instead, identify and list the specific characteristics to provide more informative and engaging content. E.g. instead of saying “The product has a number of characteristics”, list them: “The product is durable, lightweight and waterproof”.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "number of characteristics" functions as a determiner phrase followed by a noun, modifying the noun by specifying that there are multiple traits or features associated with a subject. Ludwig indicates this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

42%

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

23%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "number of characteristics" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to denote multiple attributes or features of a subject. Ludwig confirms its usability across various contexts. While versatile, it's advisable to use more specific terms when possible to enhance clarity. Common contexts include science, news media, and formal business settings. When writing, ensure the characteristics are well-defined and relevant to the topic. Overusing this general phrase can be avoided by specifying the actual characteristics whenever practical.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

several attributes

Replaces "number of characteristics" with a synonym for characteristics, maintaining a similar level of formality.

various features

Substitutes "characteristics" with "features", providing a slightly more general term.

multiple properties

Replaces "characteristics" with "properties", which is suitable in more technical contexts.

a range of qualities

Uses "qualities" instead of "characteristics", emphasizing positive or distinctive traits.

diverse traits

Replaces "number of characteristics" with an emphasis on the variety of traits.

assorted attributes

Implies a collection of different attributes, adding a sense of variety.

certain aspects

Focuses on specific aspects rather than a general set of characteristics.

defining elements

Highlights characteristics that are essential or crucial.

key aspects

Highlights important aspects or features.

distinguishing features

Focuses on the features that set something apart from others.

FAQs

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

You can use "number of characteristics" to describe the various attributes or features that something possesses. For example: "The study examined a number of characteristics that influence consumer behavior."

What are some alternatives to "number of characteristics"?

You can use alternatives like "several attributes", "various features", or "multiple properties" depending on the context.

Is it better to list the characteristics instead of using "number of characteristics"?

In many cases, listing the specific characteristics is more informative and engaging than using the general phrase "number of characteristics". Listing specific attributes provides concrete details, enhancing clarity and impact.

What does "a number of" actually mean in the phrase "number of characteristics"?

"A number of" indicates an unspecified quantity, meaning "some" or "several". In the phrase "number of characteristics", it suggests there are multiple, but not necessarily a large or specific, amount of characteristics being referred to.