three

USAGE SUMMARY

"three" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it as a number or as an adjective or noun to refer to an object, or things that can be counted. Example sentence: We will be serving three desserts tonight.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Two? Three?

The New York Times

Or all three.

The New York Times - Science

More than 9,000 women were involved originally, and were divided into three groups.

The Economist

"It took three days".

The New York Times

Three were killed.

The New York Times

They have had enough of career politicians in three parties who don't even understand the problems they face in their everyday lives.

The Guardian

Among the last set of polls, three showed the main parties level-pegging, three had the Conservatives in front by a single point and one gave Labour a two-point advantage.

The Guardian

However, a South Korean defence official said separately that North Korea could develop a fully operational submarine with ballistic missiles within two or three years.

The Guardian

North Korea's recent test-firing of a ballistic missile from a submarine was "very serious and concerning", South Korea said on Monday, with one defence official suggesting Pyongyang could have a fully operational platform in two or three years.

The Guardian

Pinker calls this offense "a schoolteacher rule" that is "a product of the usual three confusions: English with Latin, informal style with incorrect grammar, and syntax with semantics".

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Sixty-four Isoldiersoldiers have been killed.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "three" in formal writing, ensure it agrees in number with the noun it modifies. For instance, use plural nouns like "three books" instead of "three book".

Common error

Avoid using "three" with singular nouns. Always use the plural form of the noun when referring to a quantity of three, such as "three apples" instead of "three apple".

Linguistic Context

"Three" functions primarily as a numeral adjective, quantifying nouns in a sentence. It can also function as a noun when referring to the digit itself or something representing the number three. Ludwig AI confirms this with examples showing its versatile usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "three" is a versatile numeral adjective and noun used to specify a quantity or refer to the number itself. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and widespread usage. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, it maintains a neutral tone suitable for diverse applications. To ensure clarity, always use plural nouns with "three" and remain consistent with spelling or numeral style within a document. Alternatives like ""trio"" or ""triad"" can add nuance, depending on the context. By following these guidelines, you can confidently and accurately use "three" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the number 3

Highlights the numerical value itself rather than a quantity.

a trio

Refers specifically to a group of three, especially in music or art.

a triad

Implies a set of three related things or people.

triple

Indicates something that is three times a certain amount or size.

a set of three

Emphasizes the grouping or arrangement of three items.

thrice

An adverb meaning three times.

ternary

Relates to a system or situation involving three parts or options.

a trinity

Often used in a religious context, referring to a group of three in one.

a leash

It is commonly a group of three animals or things, particularly hares, foxes, or deer.

a triumvirate

Describes a group of three powerful individuals sharing authority.

FAQs

How to use "three" in a sentence?

You can use "three" as a numeral adjective to quantify nouns, for example, "I have three cats", or as a noun itself, as in, "Put all the threes in a separate container".

What are some synonyms for "three"?

Synonyms for "three" include "trio", "triad", or "ternary" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to write out the number "three" or use the numeral "3"?

Both are correct, but the choice depends on the style guide and context. Generally, spell out numbers one to nine and use numerals for 10 and above. However, always be consistent within a document.

What does "three" mean in different contexts?

The meaning of "three" remains consistent as a numerical value, but its significance can vary. It might refer to a quantity, a ranking (the third), or a specific age (a three-year-old), depending on the surrounding words.