"a number of students are" vs "a number of students is"

Question

"a number of students are" vs "a number of students is"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'A number of students are' is used when referring to the students as a group, so the plural 'are' is appropriate. 'A number of students is' is used when referring to the number itself, so the singular 'is' is correct.

Last Updated: March 29, 2024

Use 'a number of students are' when talking about the students collectively as a group.

Examples:

A number of students are participating in the competition.
A number of students are waiting in the cafeteria.
A number of students are studying for the exam.
A number of students are interested in joining the club.
A number of students are going on the field trip.

Alternatives:

Several students are
Many students are
A group of students are
A few students are
Numerous students are

Use 'a number of students is' when focusing on the number rather than the students as a group.

Examples:

A number of students is required to form a team.
A number of students is too small to conduct the survey.
A number of students is present at the event.
A number of students is needed for the project.
A number of students is enough to start the club.

Alternatives:

The number of students is
The total number of students is
The figure of students is
The amount of students is
The quantity of students is

Answer 1

a number of students are

This phrase is correct when referring to the students as a group.

Answer 2

a number of students is

This phrase is correct when referring to the number itself.

"a number of students are" vs "a number of students is"

a number of students are

a number of students is

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