"there is a large number of follow-up studies" vs "there are a large number of follow-up studies"

Question

"there is a large number of follow-up studies" vs "there are a large number of follow-up studies"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'There are a large number of follow-up studies' is correct when referring to multiple studies, while 'There is a large number of follow-up studies' is correct when treating the number as a singular entity.

Last Updated: March 15, 2024

This phrase is used when considering the 'large number' as a singular concept, even though it refers to multiple studies.

Examples:

There is a large number of follow-up studies that needs to be reviewed.
There is a large number of follow-up studies available for analysis.

Alternatives:

There exists a large number of follow-up studies.
A large number of follow-up studies is present.

This phrase is used when talking about a plural subject, such as 'studies,' which requires the plural verb 'are.'

Examples:

There are a large number of follow-up studies that support the initial findings.
There are a large number of follow-up studies waiting to be published.

Alternatives:

There are many follow-up studies.
A large number of follow-up studies exist.

Answer 1

there is a large number of follow-up studies

This phrase is correct and commonly used when treating the number as a singular entity.

Answer 2

there are a large number of follow-up studies

This phrase is correct and commonly used when referring to multiple studies.

"there is a large number of follow-up studies" vs "there are a large number of follow-up studies"

there is a large number of follow-up studies

there are a large number of follow-up studies

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