the following three

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'the following three' is a completely correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to introduce three examples, facts, or items in a list. For example: "The following three skills are essential for success in the job market: communication, problem-solving, and adaptability."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Consider the following three trends.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Consider the following three phrases.

The Guardian - Opinion

It satisfies the following three properties.

Yale University

This paper contains the following three topics.

Physica C: Superconductivity and its Applications

The paper argues the following three claims.

Geoforum

The following three recollections were added on 21 September 2012.

The Guardian - Books

The following three main pillars should drive that collaboration.

University of California, Berkeley

The following three simple steps can help you sleep better.

Harvard University

The selection of courses must satisfy the following three requirements.

Cornell University

The following three chapters include their own, more technical introductions.

Stanford University

We have the following three specific reforms in mind.

Columbia University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the following three" to clearly signal that a list of three items, reasons, or examples will be presented. This helps organize your writing and makes it easier for the reader to follow along.

Common error

Avoid using "the following three" if you don't actually provide three distinct items. Always ensure the number matches the stated quantity to maintain credibility and avoid confusing the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the following three" functions as an introductory phrase that signals to the reader that a list of three items, points, or examples is about to be presented. This is supported by Ludwig's examples across various domains.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

43%

News & Media

29%

Academia

23%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the following three" is a versatile and grammatically sound introductory phrase used to prepare the reader for a list of three items. Ludwig's analysis of numerous examples reveals its prevalence across diverse contexts such as science, news media, and academia. The phrase serves to enhance clarity and organization, making it a valuable tool for effective communication. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is a reliable way to structure your writing and present information concisely.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the subsequent three

Replaces "following" with "subsequent", indicating a time sequence.

the next three

Uses "next" to denote the immediate sequence.

these three

A more direct way to point out three items.

the upcoming three

Emphasizes that the three items are about to be presented.

the ensuing three

Indicates that the three items come immediately after.

the listed three

Highlights that the three items are part of a list.

the stated three

Implies the three items have already been mentioned.

the outlined three

Suggests that the three items are part of a broader framework.

the identified three

Focuses on the act of recognizing or specifying the three items.

consider these three

Invites the reader to pay attention to the three items being presented.

FAQs

How can I use "the following three" in a sentence?

Use "the following three" to introduce a list of three items, examples, or reasons. For example, "The success of the project depended on "the following three" factors: planning, execution, and communication."

What phrases are similar to "the following three"?

Similar phrases include "the next three", "these three", or "the subsequent three". The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "the following three"?

Yes, "the following three" is grammatically correct and widely used in formal and informal writing to introduce a list or series of three items.

What’s the difference between "the following three" and "the next three"?

"The following three" generally introduces items in a list or explanation that will be discussed, while ""the next three"" implies a sequence in time or order.