reasonable number of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "reasonable number of" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe an amount or quantity that is practical and appropriate for a particular situation or purpose. For example, "We need to limit attendance to a reasonable number of people to ensure the safety of those present."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Basically, it would seem that proportionally, a reasonable number of us are using antidepressants for no doubt numerous reasons.

Vice

A reasonable number of justifiable absences are paid in full.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

I let a reasonable number of people merge in front of me.

The New York Times

Mr. Lautenberg said he was willing to schedule "a reasonable number" of debates with Mr. Forrester.

The New York Times

You have a reasonable number of arguments, and you generally come out on top.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Is the process too complex to be stimulated in a reasonable number of vaccinations?

The Washington Post

It's also the last one to call for a reasonable number of chillies.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Bacteria were transformed with the resulting constructs, and a reasonable number of colonies were obtained.

Nature

Nonetheless, Italy and Spain do have a reasonable number of active investigators (Fig. 5a).

Nature

Now the language permits a "reasonable" number of photographs, with "reasonable" left undefined.

The New York Times

In fact, a reasonable number of voters did appear to hold it against him.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Ensure the subject using the phrase "reasonable number of" is quantifiable and that the parameters of 'reasonable' are clear in your sentence

Common error

Avoid using "reasonable number of" without context. What's reasonable in one situation might not be in another. Always ensure there's enough information for the reader to understand the intended quantity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "reasonable number of" functions as a determiner modifying a noun, indicating an unspecified but appropriate quantity. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Academia

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "reasonable number of" is a versatile expression used to denote an appropriate quantity or amount suitable for a given context. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usability. It is most commonly found in news, scientific, and academic writing, indicating a neutral to formal register. To avoid vagueness, it's best practice to provide sufficient context so readers understand the intended quantity, rather than simply stating that there is a "reasonable number of" something.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

equitable number of

Emphasizes fairness and impartiality in the amount.

fair number of

Highlights the just and acceptable quantity.

suitable number of

Focuses on the appropriateness and fitness of the quantity for a specific purpose.

acceptable number of

Indicates the quantity meets a minimum requirement or standard.

appropriate number of

Highlights that the amount is especially well-suited or fitting.

sufficient quantity of

Implies that the amount is enough to meet a need or purpose.

adequate amount of

Suggests that the amount is satisfactory or acceptable in quality or quantity.

ample supply of

Suggests more than enough, a plentiful amount.

decent amount of

Indicates a satisfactory or respectable quantity, though not necessarily outstanding.

moderate quantity of

Focuses on the amount being neither excessive nor deficient.

FAQs

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

Use "reasonable number of" to indicate an amount or quantity that is appropriate or acceptable for a given purpose or situation. For example, "We need a "sufficient number of" volunteers to complete the project efficiently."

What are some alternatives to using "reasonable number of"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "fair number of", "suitable amount of", or "adequate quantity of" to convey a similar meaning.

What does "reasonable" mean in the context of "reasonable number of"?

In this context, "reasonable" implies that the number is justifiable, appropriate, and not excessive. It suggests a quantity that is practical and sensible considering the circumstances.

Is "reasonable number of" formal or informal language?

"Reasonable number of" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, in very formal or technical writing, more precise quantifiers might be preferred.