passed a number

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "passed a number" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the act of surpassing or exceeding a specific quantity or figure, often in contexts like statistics or measurements. Example: "The team passed a number of milestones during the project, showcasing their dedication and hard work."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

We had passed a number of state-owned vineyards.

The New Yorker

They decided on a 3-day strike & passed a number of resolutions.

The New Yorker

Yes, I had passed a number of Lithuanian towns on the way.

The New Yorker

Congress, Ms. Reno noted, has passed a number of statutes expanding the government's authority to prosecute terrorists "before they strike".

The New York Times

After Watergate, the previous big presidential scandal, Congress passed a number of measures to limit presidential ambitions.

The Economist

To meet this situation, congress passed a number of laws which extended the jurisdiction of the FBI.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

In zone refining, a solid is refined by passing a number of molten zones through it in one direction.

Encyclopedia Britannica

That meant he would have had to pass a number of other cars -- quite an adventure for the heavy stock cars at Indianapolis.

The New York Times - Sports

After passing a number of tests (including the selection of personal items that had belonged to the 13th Dalai Lama), he was proclaimed the next Dalai Lama.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Contenders must pass a number of other stringent tests.

Forbes

The air-dried samples are again crushed to pass a number 72 mesh (212 μm).

International Journal of Energy and Environmental Engineering

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "passed a number", ensure the context clearly indicates what was surpassed or exceeded, and that the numerical reference is specific. For example, "The bill passed a number of amendments" is clearer than just "The bill passed a number."

Common error

Avoid using "passed a number" without specifying the unit or context. Saying "The company passed a number" is unclear. Instead, specify what was measured: "The company passed a number of sales targets."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "passed a number" functions as a verb phrase that often introduces a quantitative aspect, indicating that a certain threshold or benchmark has been exceeded. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Encyclopedias

12%

Science

8%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "passed a number" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression indicating that a certain quantity, threshold, or criterion has been exceeded or fulfilled. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a common phrase found in various contexts, including news, encyclopedias, and scientific articles. It often conveys a sense of achievement or progress, such as in legislative processes or test results. While versatile, it’s best used with clear context to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives include "exceeded a certain amount" or "fulfilled several criteria", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. Ensure clarity by specifying what was "passed", and in what context. Its neutral tone makes it suitable for diverse writing styles, maintaining its utility across various domains.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exceeded a certain amount

Emphasizes surpassing a specific quantity, focusing on the extent of the exceeding.

surpassed a quantity

Highlights exceeding a specific amount or figure, often in a statistical or measurable context.

fulfilled several criteria

Implies meeting multiple requirements or conditions, rather than strictly numerical values.

met various requirements

Focuses on satisfying a set of conditions or prerequisites.

completed multiple steps

Refers to finishing a series of actions or procedures.

covered numerous topics

Highlights addressing a wide range of subjects or issues.

went through several phases

Describes progressing through a sequence of stages or periods.

navigated many obstacles

Focuses on overcoming a series of challenges or difficulties.

satisfied diverse needs

Indicates fulfilling a variety of different requirements or demands.

progressed through stages

Implies advancement through a sequence of development or planning.

FAQs

How can I use "passed a number" in a sentence?

You can use "passed a number" to indicate exceeding or surpassing a specific quantity or figure. For example: "The team "passed a number" of milestones this quarter" or "The legislation "passed a number" of key votes."

What are some alternatives to "passed a number"?

Alternatives include "exceeded a certain amount", "surpassed a quantity", or "fulfilled several criteria", depending on the context.

Is it more formal to say "surpassed a number" instead of "passed a number"?

While both are acceptable, "surpassed a number" might be perceived as slightly more formal than "passed a number", making it suitable for academic or professional writing. However, the difference is subtle.

What's the difference between "passed a number" and "completed a number"?

"Passed a number" typically refers to exceeding or surpassing a quantity, while "completed a number" refers to finishing or fulfilling a series of tasks or items. For example, "The athlete "passed a number" of milestones", versus "The athlete "completed a number" of workouts".