Which one is correct?
"fixed number" or "a fixed number"?

Question

Which one is correct?
"fixed number" or "a fixed number"?

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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.

Examples:

The algorithm requires a fixed number of iterations.
The system can handle a fixed number of simultaneous users.

Alternatives:

constant number
unchanging number
set number
specific number
established number

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.

Alternatives:

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

Answer 1

fixed number

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

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Answer 2

a fixed number

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

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Which one is correct? "fixed number" or "a fixed number"?

fixed number

a fixed number

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Which one is correct?
"fixed number" or "a fixed number"?