specific number of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "specific number of" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it whenever you need to refer to an exact quantity or amount of something. For example, "The museum has a specific number of artifacts from the Ancient Near East."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Sonera Zed would not disclose the specific number of downloads.

The New York Times

No specific number of new hires has been given.

The New York Times

Doctors can set the artificial heart to beat a specific number of times a minute.

The New York Times

A statement from the newspaper's management did not mention a specific number of layoffs.

The New York Times

She could not provide a specific number of the jobs offered.

The New York Times

Madden declined to identify the athletes or the specific number of positive tests.

The New York Times - Sports

The minutes do not refer to a specific number of rate hikes.

The Guardian - Business

Turkey has never acknowledged a specific number of deportees or deaths.

The New York Times

In problems, White is asked to force checkmate in a specific number of moves.

Britannica

He would not even comment on the specific number of teams he was talking to, which is harmless information.

The New York Times - Sports

Mr. Masyr said that it was impossible to get tenants to promise to hire a specific number of employees.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "specific number of", ensure that the context clearly indicates how the number is relevant or important to the overall message. For example, instead of saying "a specific number of issues", specify what those issues entail if possible.

Common error

Avoid using vague language immediately after mentioning a "specific number of". For instance, don't say "a specific number of participants, around 20 or so". It diminishes the impact of the specification. Be precise, if possible.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "specific number of" functions as a determiner phrase. It modifies a noun to indicate a particular and defined quantity. As demonstrated by Ludwig, it is used to express precision rather than approximation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

23%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

8%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "specific number of" is a grammatically correct and frequently used way to indicate a precise quantity. Ludwig confirms that it is seen across diverse contexts, ranging from formal academic and scientific articles to news reports and even wikis. Its primary function is to convey accuracy and certainty, while the register remains largely neutral. Remember to be as accurate as possible and avoid vagueness when using the phrase. Also, consider using alternatives such as "precise quantity of" or "exact amount of" to diversify your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

precise quantity of

Emphasizes exactness and accuracy in the amount.

exact amount of

Highlights the accuracy and lack of ambiguity in the quantity.

particular quantity of

Focuses on a distinct and identifiable quantity.

defined quantity of

Indicates that the quantity has been clearly established and specified.

certain quantity of

Suggests a known but perhaps not explicitly stated quantity.

fixed number of

Implies a predetermined and unchangeable number.

designated amount of

Indicates that the amount has been officially assigned or allocated.

prescribed number of

Suggests that the number is required or recommended by a rule or authority.

stipulated amount of

Indicates an amount that has been agreed upon in a contract or agreement.

allocated number of

Implies that the number has been assigned for a particular purpose.

FAQs

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

Use "specific number of" when you want to indicate an exact quantity or amount. For example, "The project requires a "specific number of" resources to be successful."

What's a good alternative to "specific number of"?

Depending on the context, you could use "precise quantity of", "exact amount of", or "particular quantity of".

Is it necessary to always provide the number after "specific number of"?

Ideally, yes. The phrase implies that a definite quantity exists. However, sometimes the exact number is unknown or confidential. In such cases, ensure the context suggests why the number remains unspecified.

What is the difference between "specific number of" and "certain number of"?

"Specific number of" emphasizes that you are talking about an exact amount, while "certain number of" suggests an indefinite but known quantity. If you know the amount, it is better to specify it. If you only want to indicate an unspecified amount, "certain number of" will be more appropriate.