they numbered two

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "they numbered two" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate the quantity of a group or items, often in a more formal or literary context. Example: "In the end, they numbered two, standing side by side as the last of their kind."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

He said they numbered six -- Chaplin, W. C. Fields, Buster Keaton, Groucho and Harpo Marx, and Peter Sellers -- not just Chaplin and Fields.

The New York Times

They numbered fourteen men, and were headed by one Allighan Kangany, who had followed Mr. Hill, his former master, from Ceylon.

Cornell University

They numbered six each, in 1810 increased to ten each.

Wikipedia

When warriors from the famous Chinese terra cotta army buried with Emperor Qin Shi Huang (259-210 Bcameame to the Los Angeles County Museum of Art in 1987, they numbered three.

Los Angeles Times

They were originally numbered twenty-four but were eventually reduced to twelve.

Wikipedia

As usual, there are catalysts for this column; in this case they number three.

The New York Times

They number forty or so, in a rough hierarchy, with Captain Henry (Domhnall Gleeson) just about keeping charge.

The New Yorker

They number five, one for each operation in the six years Baker spent away from professional tennis.

The New York Times - Sports

The beast is not made human by his beauties, whether they number eight, nine, or hundreds; he just becomes more of a beast.

The New Yorker

One text, the Varaha-purana, states that they number eight, including Yogeshvari, created out of the flame from Shiva's mouth.

Encyclopedia Britannica

John Doran's acclaimed memoir Jolly Lad, based on his long-running column MENK for VICE is available from STheyge Attractor Presse Attractor Press.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using more common alternatives like "there were two" or "they were two" for better clarity and contemporary style.

Common error

Avoid using "they numbered two" in informal contexts or when simpler phrasing suffices. The phrase can sound overly formal or archaic in modern casual conversation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "they numbered two" functions as a declarative statement indicating the quantity of a group or set. The phrase specifies the total count, aligning with Ludwig's assessment of correctness.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "they numbered two" is grammatically sound but considered less common in contemporary English. Ludwig indicates its grammatical correctness, but its infrequent usage suggests caution in modern writing. It carries a formal register, making it suitable for specific contexts requiring a stylized tone, although simpler alternatives are generally favored. As evidenced by Ludwig, the phrase accurately communicates quantity but is not frequently encountered in diverse sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

there were two of them

Uses a more common phrasing to express the existence of two individuals.

the total came to two

Focuses on the final count or sum being two.

their count was two

Emphasizes the process of counting and the resulting number.

they amounted to two

Highlights the cumulative effect or result, equaling two.

only two existed

Stresses the exclusivity and limitation to just two.

two individuals were present

Formal and explicit statement of the presence of two people.

a pair was recorded

Indicates a specific recording or observation of a pair.

the sum was a duo

Uses the term "duo" to represent the quantity of two.

they constituted a couple

Highlights that the two form a pair or couple.

two were identified

Focuses on the act of identifying or recognizing two items or individuals.

FAQs

What does "they numbered two" mean?

It means that there were two of something or someone. It's a formal way of stating the quantity.

What are some alternatives to "they numbered two"?

You can use alternatives like "there were two", "only two", or "they were two".

Is "they numbered two" grammatically correct?

Yes, it is grammatically correct, although it's less common in contemporary English compared to simpler alternatives.

When is it appropriate to use "they numbered two"?

It might be appropriate in formal writing or historical contexts where a more stylized or archaic tone is desired. However, in most modern contexts, simpler alternatives are preferable.