number of matters

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "number of matters" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the quantity or count of various issues, topics, or concerns being discussed or considered. Example: "The report outlines the number of matters that need to be addressed in the upcoming meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A number of matters remain under active investigation.

The Guardian

Gives his views on a number of matters.

The New Yorker

These include a number of matters under the Representation of the People Act 1983".

The Guardian

In the company's shareholder meeting in early March, shareholders voted again on a number of matters.

The New York Times

Trump, despite tacking to the right on a number of matters in recent years, rarely emphasizes social issues.

The New Yorker

The 50-year-old also said the LeT militants consulted with Pakistani intelligence officials on a number of matters.

The Guardian

When I spoke again with the prime minister earlier today, we were clear on a number of matters.

The Guardian

However its open judgment remains silent on a number of matters that were heard in secret during the appeal.

The Guardian

"There are now a number of matters which can be described as causes for genuine concern," said Lord Kennedy.

The Guardian

The report, written by Irish historian Erin Gibbons, states: "A number of matters arise from the chandelier affair.

Independent

"You cannot bully your way into cooperation – Mr Turnbull wants our cooperation on a number of matters, and we're looking at them," he said.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "number of matters" to introduce a list or discussion of multiple, distinct issues. It works well in formal reports, legal documents, and news articles where a clear and concise way to refer to several topics is needed.

Common error

Avoid using "number of matters" in casual conversations or informal writing. Simpler phrases like "several things" or "some issues" are often more appropriate and sound less stilted.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "number of matters" functions as a noun phrase. It serves to denote a quantity or a collection of issues, topics, or items under consideration. Ludwig AI examples confirm its use in introducing a list or discussion of multiple subjects.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "number of matters" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed noun phrase used to refer to a collection or quantity of topics, issues, or items. Ludwig AI confirms it's appropriate in neutral to formal registers, especially in news, academic, and professional settings. While common, remember that simpler alternatives may be more suitable in casual contexts. The examples provided by Ludwig AI illustrate how this phrase is typically employed to introduce a discussion or list of several points, making it a valuable tool for clear and concise communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

several issues

Focuses on specific problems or points of discussion.

various topics

Highlights the diversity of subjects under consideration.

multiple concerns

Emphasizes worries or anxieties related to different subjects.

a range of subjects

Suggests a spectrum of different themes or areas of interest.

assorted problems

Implies a mixture of different difficulties or challenges.

numerous points

Highlights many specific details or arguments.

a variety of issues

Similar to 'several issues' but may suggest a broader scope.

a multitude of topics

Suggests a large and perhaps overwhelming quantity of subjects.

several items

Refers to particular entries or components within a list or agenda.

various considerations

Focuses on factors that need to be carefully weighed and evaluated.

FAQs

How to use "number of matters" in a sentence?

You can use "number of matters" to introduce a list or discussion of multiple, distinct issues. For example: "The committee discussed a "number of matters" related to the budget."

What can I say instead of "number of matters"?

You can use alternatives like "several issues", "various topics", or "multiple concerns" depending on the specific context.

Which is correct: "a number of matters" or "the number of matters"?

"A number of matters" is used when referring to several unspecified items. "The number of matters" refers to a specific quantity that is already known or being discussed.

What's the difference between "number of matters" and "variety of issues"?

"Number of matters" generally indicates a list or count of distinct items, while "variety of issues" implies a range or assortment of problems or concerns.