provide a number

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "provide a number" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when asking someone to give you a specific numerical value or quantity. Example: "Please provide a number for the budget estimate so we can proceed with the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Prenatal clinics provide a number of elements.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He could not provide a number of health care workers under surveillance.

The Guardian

The waterway could provide a number of sustainability services right along its length.

The Guardian

He could not provide a number of healthcare workers under surveillance.

The Guardian

"Pancakes are a favourite breakfast food, and many varieties provide a number of essential nutrients.

Independent

Multiverse will provide a number of ways to search, though this too will be open.

The Economist

Labels provide a number that likely overestimates the calories available in unprocessed foods.

Independent

That's 56,000 in the case of Chase alone; GMAC declined to provide a number.

The New York Times

The department was reluctant to provide a number, and Sauthoff told me, "We are in unknown territory".

The New Yorker

She says her coterie of robots provide a number of functions, from physical and cognitive assistance to social help.

The Guardian - Tech

You can also return items by courier (they provide a number) or by post using their prepaid label.

The Guardian - Money

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "provide a number" in formal writing, ensure the context clearly indicates the type of number being requested or offered. For example, specify whether it is an estimate, a measurement, or an identification code.

Common error

While "provide a number" is grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "give me a number" or "can you number it" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "provide a number" functions primarily as a verb phrase, where "provide" is the verb and "a number" serves as the direct object. It indicates the action of supplying a numerical value. Ludwig AI confirms the correctness and usability of this phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

31%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Social Media

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "provide a number" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that indicates the action of giving a numerical value. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread usage. It is most common in news, science, and business contexts, suggesting a neutral to formal tone. When using this phrase, ensure the context clearly specifies the type of number being requested or offered. While appropriate for professional communication, simpler alternatives may be preferable in casual settings. Understanding the nuances of "provide a number" can help enhance clarity and professionalism in written and spoken communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

give a number

Replaces "provide" with the more common synonym "give", resulting in a slightly more informal tone.

supply a number

Substitutes "provide" with "supply", implying a more formal or official context.

offer a number

Replaces "provide" with "offer", suggesting a willingness or intention to disclose a numerical value.

furnish a number

Substitutes "provide" with "furnish", indicating a formal or official supply of information.

state a number

Replaces "provide" with "state", emphasizing the act of declaring a numerical value.

specify a number

Substitutes "provide" with "specify", highlighting the act of giving a precise or particular numerical value.

indicate a number

Replaces "provide" with "indicate", suggesting that the number serves as a sign or signal.

disclose a number

Substitutes "provide" with "disclose", implying that the number was previously confidential or unknown.

quote a number

Replaces "provide" with "quote", usually implying it comes from another source or is an estimate.

release a number

Substitutes "provide" with "release", suggesting making a number public.

FAQs

What does "provide a number" mean?

The phrase "provide a number" means to give a specific numerical value or quantity, often in response to a request or to offer information.

What can I say instead of "provide a number"?

You can use alternatives like "give a number", "supply a number", or "offer a number" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "provide a number"?

The phrase "provide a number" is suitable in formal and professional settings when requesting or presenting numerical data, such as in reports, presentations, or official communications.

Is "provide a number" the same as "assign a number"?

No, "provide a number" means to give or offer a number, while "assign a number" means to allocate or designate a number to something. They are not interchangeable. To assign a number see: "assigning a number".