stretch the number

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "stretch the number" is not commonly used in written English and may not be clear in meaning.
It could be used in contexts where one is discussing the manipulation or adjustment of numerical values, but clarity is essential. Example: "To fit the budget, we need to stretch the number to accommodate additional expenses."

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

He would stretch the number to three and says all of Sime Darby's core businesses meet that criterion.

Forbes

However, to stretch the number of individuals that can be vaccinated with any given amount of vaccine preparation that can be produced it would be desirable if dose-sparing can be achieved.

Plosone

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

"There are different ways to tug and stretch the numbers," he said.

The New York Times

The Republicans may minimize their loss, yet Mr. Corzine has nevertheless stretched the number of years since New Jersey last elected a Republican to the United States Senate to 28. (That last Republican, elected in 1972, was Clifford P. Case, a courtly moderate).

The New York Times

The legislature said that stretching the number of years children are in school was intended to meet the requirements of "the age of knowledge-based economy and the trend of the world," a term that has been favored under Mr. Kim.

The New York Times

Colin worked the phones and Skype tirelessly, stretching the number of interviews we could cram into a day by calling people in Hawaii.

Science Magazine

The aviation agency also seems to have paid relatively little attention to Alaska Airlines' decision to stretch out the number of hours between tests to measure wear on the part.

The New York Times

Mindful of projected multibillion-dollar deficits, Randi Weingarten, president of the teachers' union, indicated in an interview that she might be willing to stretch out the number of years that the city's teachers will receive large pay increases they have demanded to catch up with suburban teachers.

The New York Times

At this point especially with ratings at an all time high and VH1 trying to stretch out the number of episodes however they can keeping all six of the final queens was not a shock.

Vice

It's even worse with a child whose fever may be stretching the outer numbers on the thermometer at 3 a.m.

Forbes

As you raise more capital, your exit value goes up, timing gets stretched and the number of buyers who can afford you drops".

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "stretch the number", ensure the context is clear, as it can imply either a legitimate effort to make the most of limited resources or a less ethical attempt to misrepresent figures. Consider using a more precise alternative if clarity is crucial.

Common error

Avoid using "stretch the number" in formal reports or academic writing where a more precise and neutral term like "extend", "expand", or "adjust" would be more appropriate. The phrase can sound informal or even suggest manipulation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "stretch the number" primarily functions as a verb phrase, where "stretch" acts as a transitive verb modifying the noun "number". As Ludwig AI mentions, the clarity of this phrase can be questionable, so consider a more precise alternative.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "stretch the number" is used to convey the idea of extending or manipulating a numerical value, often with the intent of making it fit a particular need or objective. As Ludwig AI highlights, the phrase can be ambiguous and potentially misleading. Although present in News & Media and Science, it's advisable to use more precise alternatives like "extend", "expand", or "adjust" in formal or academic contexts. When considering how to express a similar idea, remember to use alternatives with the specific context in mind to avoid any confusion.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

expand the quantity

Similar to 'stretch', but focuses on increasing the amount or volume.

inflate the figures

Emphasizes an exaggeration of numbers, often implying dishonesty.

pad the numbers

Implies adding unnecessary or false information to increase a numerical value.

manipulate the statistics

Suggests a deliberate alteration of numbers to achieve a desired outcome.

exaggerate the count

Focuses on overstating the quantity or amount.

increase the total

A straightforward way to express making a number larger.

amplify the result

Suggests making a numerical outcome more significant or pronounced.

maximize the output

Focuses on achieving the highest possible numerical value or production.

extend the duration

Refers to increasing the length or time period associated with a number, not necessarily the number itself.

broaden the scope

Implies increasing the range or extent covered by a number or measurement.

FAQs

What does "stretch the number" mean?

The phrase "stretch the number" generally means to extend, expand, or manipulate a numerical value, sometimes implying an attempt to make the most of limited resources or, less ethically, to misrepresent figures.

What are some alternatives to "stretch the number"?

Some alternatives to "stretch the number" include "inflate the figures", "manipulate the statistics", or "expand the quantity", depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "stretch the number" in formal writing?

Using "stretch the number" may not be appropriate in formal writing. Consider using a more neutral and precise term like "extend", "expand", or "adjust" for better clarity and professionalism.

How can I use "stretch the number" in a sentence?

You might say, "To fit the budget, we need to stretch the number to accommodate additional expenses" or "The company tried to stretch the number to impress investors".