suitable number

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "suitable number" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a number that is appropriate or fitting for a particular context or situation. Example: "Please provide a suitable number of participants for the study to ensure valid results."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

John needed a suitable number to back his performance of Bennie and the Jets on Soul Train in 1975.

The Guardian - Music

ii) An arithmetic progression (often taken modulo some suitable number) is beautiful.

The New York Times

Then, a suitable number of these descriptors were selected using multiple linear regression (MLR) technique.

European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry

(b) After reverse transcription, a quantitative PCR (qPCR) was carried out to determine the suitable number of PCR cycles when indexing the finished libraries.

Nature

The blocking factor should be chosen such that you get a suitable number of events in each pixel of interest to make the mean be meaningful.

Harvard University

Extending this proposed thermal integration mechanism, one can configure the hybrid HIDiC-VRCIR column with any suitable number of IRs.

Chemical Engineering Research and Design

The suitable number and pattern of the hydrophilic substituents depend on the nature of the hydrophilic groups.

Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology

According to the law, institutions must have a suitable number of containers for recyclable materials; provide public education on what should be recycled; and ensure that a municipal or private hauler collects the material.

The New York Times

You organise a qualification schedule, decide on a suitable number of finalists, then stage the tournament in a country keen enough on the game and capable enough of providing venues befitting the occasion.

The Guardian - Sport

Now I imagine al-Sisi will let the lads out of jail when a suitable number of days or weeks have passed.

Independent

But they may yet leave if Egypt convinces them that it can stop the smuggling by stationing a suitable number of border guards on the frontier.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "suitable number", ensure the context clearly defines what makes the number "suitable". Be specific about the criteria or requirements the number needs to meet.

Common error

Avoid using "suitable number" without specifying the criteria for suitability. For example, instead of saying "a suitable number of samples", specify "a suitable number of samples to ensure statistical significance".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "suitable number" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun. It describes the quantity of something, emphasizing that the number is appropriate or fitting for a specific context. As Ludwig AI points out, it is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

62%

News & Media

25%

Academia

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "suitable number" is a versatile phrase used to describe a quantity that is appropriate or fitting for a specific purpose. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used across various domains, including science, news media, and academia. When using "suitable number", ensure the context clearly defines the criteria that determine suitability. Common alternatives include "appropriate quantity", "adequate amount", and "sufficient quantity". The prevalence of the phrase across diverse sources underscores its importance in conveying precision and appropriateness in various forms of communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

appropriate quantity

Replaces "number" with "quantity", emphasizing the amount needed.

adequate amount

Uses "adequate" instead of "suitable", focusing on sufficiency.

sufficient quantity

Similar to "adequate amount", stressing that there is enough.

optimal count

Emphasizes achieving the best or most favorable number.

fitting amount

Highlights the appropriateness of the quantity.

right number

A simpler, more direct way to express the concept.

ideal quantity

Focuses on the perfect or most desirable amount.

requisite amount

Emphasizes that the amount is required or necessary.

necessary number

Highlights the essential nature of the number.

satisfactory quantity

Indicates the amount is good enough to meet requirements.

FAQs

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

You can use "suitable number" to indicate an amount that is appropriate or fitting for a specific purpose. For example, "We need a suitable number of participants to validate the study's findings."

What are some alternatives to "suitable number"?

You can use alternatives such as "appropriate quantity", "adequate amount", or "sufficient quantity" depending on the context.

Is it better to use "suitable number" or "appropriate number"?

"Suitable number" and "appropriate number" are often interchangeable. The choice depends on personal preference and the specific nuance you want to convey. "Suitable" implies fitness for a specific purpose, while "appropriate" suggests conformity to a standard or expectation.

How do I determine a "suitable number" for a research study?

Determining a "suitable number" for a research study often involves statistical power analysis, considering factors like effect size, desired statistical power, and acceptable significance level. Consult with a statistician to ensure you have an adequate sample size.