"There are a number of" vs "there is a number of"

Question

"There are a number of" vs "there is a number of"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'There are a number of' is used when referring to multiple items or options, while 'There is a number of' is used when referring to a specific quantity or amount.

Last Updated: March 21, 2024

This phrase is used to indicate the existence of multiple items or options. It is followed by a plural noun.

Examples:

There are a number of reasons why I can't attend the meeting.
There are a number of books on the shelf.
There are a number of solutions to this problem.

Alternatives:

There are several
There are numerous
There are many
There are plenty of
There are a lot of

This phrase is used to indicate a specific quantity or amount of something. It is followed by a singular noun.

Examples:

There is a number of people waiting outside.
There is a number of issues that need to be addressed.
There is a number of factors to consider.

Alternatives:

There is a quantity of
There is an amount of
There is a figure of
There is a total of
There is a sum of

Answer 1

There are a number of

This phrase is correct and commonly used when referring to multiple items or options.

Answer 2

there is a number of

This phrase is correct and commonly used when referring to a specific quantity or amount.

"There are a number of" vs "there is a number of"

There are a number of

there is a number of

Related Comparisons