a number of

a number of — idiom

1. an expression used before a plural noun to say that there are several people or

1.慣用語B1
釋義

an expression used before a plural noun to say that there are several people or things, but without stating the exact amount.

例句

A number of students have complained about the new library opening hours.

subject position with plural verb: have complained

The cafe now offers a number of vegan cakes on its afternoon menu.

object position: offers a number of + plural noun

同義詞
  • several

    the closest synonym in meaning and register; interchangeable in most contexts

  • a few

    slightly smaller in range, often implies a smaller quantity than "a number of"

  • various

    emphasises diversity or different kinds rather than quantity

反義詞
  • none

    indicates zero, as opposed to an unspecified positive quantity

文法句型

a number of + plural noun + plural verb

用法筆記

This phrase always takes a plural verb (have/were/are), not a singular verb. Do not confuse with "the number of," which takes a singular verb: "The number of visitors has increased."

常見錯誤

❌A number of students is waiting outside.
✅A number of students are waiting outside.
💡"a number of" is followed by a plural noun and requires a plural verb.
❌A number of water was spilled on the floor.
✅A number of bottles of water were spilled on the floor.
💡"a number of" can only be used with countable plural nouns, not uncountable nouns like "water."