a fixed number vs fixed number

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. "A fixed number" is used when referring to a specific, singular number, while "fixed number" is used when talking about a general concept of a number that is fixed or constant.

Last updated: March 23, 2024

a fixed number

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

Use "a fixed number" when you want to refer to a specific, singular number that is fixed or constant.

Examples:

A fixed number of participants is required for the experiment.
I need to allocate a fixed number of hours to complete the project.

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Automatic grid spacing is independent of zoom; there will be a fixed number of tics.
An optional alternative of placing a fixed number of engines on the market under the flexibility scheme should be available.
For example, a bond or similar instrument convertible by the holder into a fixed number of ordinary shares of the entity is a compound financial instrument.
Similarly, settlement in a fixed number of an entity's own shares may be contractually precluded in circumstances that are outside the control of the entity, but if these circumstances have no genuine possibility of occurring, classification as an equity instrument is appropriate.
As an optional alternative to section 1.2.1., the OEM may seek permission for his engine suppliers to place on the market a fixed number of engines under the flexibility scheme.
As an optional alternative to section 1.2, the OEM may seek permission for his/her engine suppliers to place on the market a fixed number of engines under the flexibility scheme.
An optional alternative of placing a fixed number of engines on the market under the flexibility scheme should be available.
This approach differs from the current interim effort control system, under which the EU legislation sets a fixed number of days at sea per month for each vessel in specific categories, depending on the gear they use.
As an alternative option to section 1.1.1., the tractor manufacturer may seek permission for his engine suppliers to place on the market a fixed number of engines under the flexibility scheme.
livestock payments are made on a fixed number of head.
The alternative option of allowing a fixed number of tractors to be placed on the market and to enter into service under the flexibility scheme should be adapted accordingly.
As an alternative option to section 1.2, the tractor manufacturer may seek permission for his engine suppliers to place on the market a fixed number of engines under the flexibility scheme.
either of a fixed number of 20 Commissioners and the President provided there is a rotation system ensuring over time equal opportunity for citizens of every Member State to participate;
However, this concept cannot be translated into a fixed number of days, weeks, months or years, or into various periods depending on the seriousness of the offence.
Instead of applying paragraphs 6 to 9, Member States may allocate an annual lump sum amount per farmer calculated by multiplying a fixed number of hectares by a figure corresponding to 25 % of the national average payment per hectare, as established in accordance with paragraph 8.
Except as stated in paragraph 22A, a contract that will be settled by the entity (receiving or) delivering a fixed number of its own equity instruments in exchange for a fixed amount of cash or another financial asset is an equity instrument.
This includes a contract that will be settled by the entity receiving or delivering a fixed number of such instruments in exchange for a fixed amount of cash or another financial asset.
One example is an issued share option that gives the counterparty a right to buy a fixed number of the entity's shares for a fixed amount of cash.
One example is an entity's obligation under a forward contract to repurchase a fixed number of its own shares for a fixed amount of cash.
A contract that will be settled by the entity (receiving or) delivering a fixed number of its own equity instruments in exchange for a fixed amount of cash or another financial asset is an equity instrument.

Alternatives:

a set number
a specific number
an established number
a predetermined number
a constant number

fixed number

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

Use "fixed number" when you want to talk about a general concept of a number that is fixed or constant, without specifying a particular number.