number of steps

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "number of steps" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific count of actions or stages in a process or procedure. Example: "To complete the project, we need to follow a specific number of steps to ensure everything is done correctly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

What are the advantages of making a drug in a shorter number of steps?

The Guardian - Tech

To maintain the nuclear infrastructure a number of steps are planned.

The New York Times

Ms. Stern said she learned very quickly not to focus on the number of steps.

The New York Times

But a number of steps remain to be taken before any trial can proceed.

The New York Times

A number of steps have been taken to weaken Baghdad's defenses.

The New York Times

He identifies buildings by the number of steps he can run.

The New York Times

States already monitor such substitution and take a number of steps to deter it.

The New York Times

These included counting, walking a specified number of steps, and a simple gymnastics-like routine.

The Guardian

"Lazard missed a number of steps in not spotting the changes".

The New York Times

(Research has shown that some brands miscount the number of steps taken).

The New York Times - Health

If this is to take place, then a number of steps are needed.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "number of steps" to denote tangible progress in a goal-oriented discussion.

Common error

Avoid assuming everyone understands the scope of a "step". For example, in a recipe, is 'add salt' one step, or does it break down into measuring, pouring, and stirring?

Linguistic Context

The phrase "number of steps" primarily functions as a noun phrase, acting as a subject or object in a sentence. It specifies a quantifiable amount of actions or stages within a process. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's grammatical correctness and versatility.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

36%

News & Media

34%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "number of steps" is a versatile and grammatically sound noun phrase that quantifies actions or stages in a process. Ludwig AI indicates that it's common in news, science, and business contexts, signaling its wide applicability. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity regarding what constitutes a 'step' to avoid ambiguity. Consider alternatives like "count of steps" or "quantity of steps" to add variety to your writing. Ultimately, "number of steps" serves to inform, instruct, or analyze the complexity of procedures across diverse fields.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

total steps

This shorted version focuses on the sum of steps.

step count

This alternative inverts the phrase's structure while retaining its core meaning.

count of steps

This alternative replaces "number" with "count", emphasizing the act of counting the steps.

quantity of steps

This alternative uses "quantity" instead of "number", highlighting the amount of steps involved.

amount of steps

This alternative replaces "number" with "amount", focusing on the total steps taken.

stages count

This alternative inverts the phrase's structure replacing steps with stages while retaining a similar meaning.

sequence of stages

This phrase replaces both "number" and "steps" with "sequence" and "stages", respectively, shifting the focus to a series of stages rather than individual steps.

series of actions

This alternative uses "series" and "actions", broadening the context to any type of action, not necessarily steps.

stages involved

This option focuses on the involvement of stages, rather than the count.

process stages

This option refers to stages in the process. Shorted and more concise.

FAQs

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

You can use "number of steps" to describe a process, like "The recipe requires a specific "number of steps" to follow."

What is a synonym for "number of steps"?

Alternatives include "count of steps", "quantity of steps", or "amount of steps", depending on the desired emphasis.

Is it better to say "number of steps" or "amount of steps"?

Both are acceptable, but "number of steps" is generally preferred when referring to a countable sequence of actions. "Amount of steps" might be suitable when emphasizing the total effort or distance covered.

What does "reducing the number of steps" mean?

It typically means simplifying a process by eliminating unnecessary actions or stages, making it more efficient. For example, reducing the "number of steps" in a manufacturing process can save time and resources.