a number of
The phrase "a number of" is used to indicate an unspecified quantity, often implying more than two but fewer than many.
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Definition
B1General
(common)More than two but fewer than many.
Example
- A number of students failed the exam.
- There are a number of reasons why this project is important.
B1General
(common)An unspecified quantity of a particular type of thing.
Example
- We have a number of options to consider.
- A number of issues need to be addressed.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "a number of":