a number of is vs a number of are

The correct phrase is 'a number of is.' 'A number of' is followed by a singular noun and takes a singular verb, which is 'is.' 'A number of are' is incorrect because 'are' is a plural verb and does not agree with the singular noun that follows 'a number of.'

Last updated: March 25, 2024 • 1538 views

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

"a number of is"

Use 'a number of is' when referring to a specific quantity of something followed by a singular noun. The verb 'is' agrees with the singular noun.

Examples:

A number of students is absent today.
A number of books is missing from the library.
A number of cars is parked in the lot.
A number of employees is on vacation.
A number of houses is for sale in the neighborhood.

Alternatives:

several is
many is
a few is
a couple is
a handful is

This phrase is incorrect in English.

"a number of are"

Show examples from the web [+]

A number of derogations are provided, in particular when the third country provides adequate safeguards.
A number of vessels are moving toward the Neutral Zone.
A number of obstacles are still preventing the single market from operating to its full potential.
Many corporations and a number of NPIs are in this situation.
A number of projects are currently in progress or under consideration.
It is the case that a number of Members are considering appealing against this decision.
When it comes to enlargement, a number of issues are particularly important.
A number of measures are needed in this regard.
A number of countries are requesting new WTO rules where financial services are concerned.
However, a number of things are already clear.
However, a number of documents are already accessible.
A number of evaluations are now under way.
A number of changes are also required to the Notes accompanying each entry.
A number of proposals are made below.
A number of projects are already under way as part of the EuroMed partnership.
Each year a number of organs are damaged during removal and/or transportation.
Simplification of transport chains: A number of initiatives are being carried out in this area.
49m go in the reserve, though, which will be released if a number of conditions are fulfilled.
50m go in the reserve, though, which will be released if a number of conditions are fulfilled.
However, a number of airlines are charging passengers requiring supplemental oxygen.

How TextRanch works

Fast and reliable proofreading, editing, and language advice tailored to your needs.

1. Choose Your Service

Quick Text Editing

Emails and short texts
Proofreading & editing
Ready in 5-10 minutes

SUBMIT YOUR TEXT NOW

Document Editing

Documents of any type (*.docx)
Advanced & Premium editing
Ready in as little as 4 hours

UPLOAD YOUR DOCUMENT

Ask an Editor

Personalized answers to your language questions
Expert guidance on grammar, style, and usage
Ready in 24 hours

ASK YOUR QUESTION

Upload your document or paste your text directly into our platform. Your text is reviewed and refined by our expert editors (real people, not machines) who understand the nuances of English. Expect corrections, improvements, and insightful suggestions that enhance the clarity, tone, and professionalism of your writing.

3. Receive Your Polished Text

In just a few minutes (or hours for longer documents), you'll receive your corrected text. Review the changes, make any final adjustments, and confidently share your polished English with the world.
You can count on a personalized, friendly service every time you use TextRanch. We're committed to helping you make a great impression with every word you write.

We proofread and edit these types of texts and documents:

Short texts Business Emails Personal Emails Social media posts Resume and Curriculum Vitae Business documents Sales proposal Research and academic papers Thesis Dissertation Essays Articles Blog posts and much more....

Why choose TextRanch?

Complete Privacy

Your texts are safe and secure with us. We never share your information with third parties.

Affordable Pricing

No subscription fees and rates up to 50% cheaper than other online editing services.

100% Satisfaction

We guarantee that you'll be satisfied with the quality of our service or your money back.

Top Customer Service

Our team is here to help you with any questions you may have. Contact us anytime.

Our Customers Love Us!

We have an average rating of 4.79 stars based on 283125 votes, and

4.9 Excellent - Reviews 2.137

"7 years without any disappointment. Always 100% satisfied. You guys are the best in the world at what you do. Thank you so much :)"

Zubair
from Bangladesh

"I wasn't aware of this service, it's fascinating and more reliable than standard IA tools available on the internet"

Arturo
from Mexico

"In a world of text messages and online communication, this is great to have as a live tool. Thank you."

Selena
from USA

"Wow, it's just so excellent. I never would have believed I could have a sure and excellent English companion. Thanks, TextRanch."

Ifiok
from Nigeria

"This is my first time using TextRanch, and I like how the editors take time to correct my text. To everyone who has never used TextRanch before, I highly recommend trying it."

Wilson
from France

"It is an amazing source of feedback because, as a non-native speaker, I really need to have a reliable helper correct my text."

Susan
from Germany

a number of is vs a number of are

"a number of is"

"a number of are"

Related Comparisons

2. Submit Your Text

3. Receive Your Polished Text