number of different

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "number of different" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a quantity of distinct items or categories within a certain context. Example: "The study examined the number of different species found in the rainforest."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Printing takes a number of different forms.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"There are a number of different theories.

The New York Times

"There are a number of different pitches.

The Guardian

A. A number of different ways.

The New York Times

"There were a number of different unions and a number of different workers involved.

The Guardian

"I have had a number of different conversations with a number of different people," he added.

The New York Times

A number of different channels are available.

Columbia University

Traditionally, farmyards had a number of different animals in them.

The Guardian

It can be a number of different things.

The New York Times - Sports

"We've consulted a number of different legal opinions," said Jenkin.

The Guardian

These languages aim to satisfy a number of different goals.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "number of different" to emphasize the variety or count of distinct items. This is especially effective when you want to highlight the range of options or possibilities available.

Common error

Avoid using "number of different" repeatedly in the same paragraph. Vary your language by using synonyms like "variety of", "range of", or "assortment of" to maintain reader engagement and avoid sounding repetitive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "number of different" functions as a determiner phrase that modifies a noun, specifying the quantity and variety of the noun. Ludwig AI confirms this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used. It introduces the idea that there are multiple, distinct instances of something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Academia

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "number of different" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that serves to quantify and emphasize variety. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its widespread applicability across various writing styles. While versatile, it's important to consider synonyms like "variety of" or "range of" to avoid repetition. Its neutral tone makes it suitable for various contexts, ranging from news articles to academic papers, but careful usage will improve writing quality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

variety of

Focuses on the diversity or range of items.

range of

Highlights the extent or scope of options.

array of

Emphasizes an organized or structured collection.

selection of

Implies a deliberate choice or assortment.

diversity of

Specifically denotes the presence of varied elements.

assortment of

Suggests a mixed collection of items.

spectrum of

Highlights a range of positions or qualities.

multiplicity of

Emphasizes the large quantity and variety.

plethora of

Indicates an abundance and variety.

collection of

Focuses on gathering or accumulating various items.

FAQs

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

You can use "number of different" to refer to a quantity of distinct items within a specific context. For example: "The experiment tested a number of different variables".

What are some alternatives to "number of different"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "variety of", "range of", or "selection of".

Is it more appropriate to say "number of different" or "variety of"?

Both "number of different" and "variety of" are grammatically correct. "Number of different" emphasizes the count, while "variety of" emphasizes the diversity. Choose the phrase that best fits the intended meaning.

How does "number of different" compare to "number of other"?

"Number of different" emphasizes that the items are distinct and not the same. "Number of other" indicates there are additional items besides the ones initially considered. The choice depends on whether you want to highlight the distinctiveness or simply the addition of items.