0
Anonymous Posted 15 years ago
Grammar

A number of

Hello,

When we say number of X, is it always in the plural even though 'number' is singular? Like "an infinite number of things were bothering him' etc. (number followed by were).

Thanks,

Session data>
  

Top answer

a number takes the plural. the number takes the singular. A number of things were bothering him.

— CalifJim

  • a number takes the plural.
  • the number takes the singular.
  • A number of things were bothering him.
  • An infinite number of things are bothering him.
  • The number of things that he bought was amazing.
Free · every Monday

Get the Weekly English Kit 📬

New words, one handy idiom, and a 2-minute quiz — delivered to your inbox to keep your streak alive.

1 Answers
0
a number takes the plural.
the number takes the singular.

A number of things were bothering him.
An infinite number of things are bothering him.

The number of things that he bought was amazing.
The number of people in this room is 12.

CJ
0

Related Questions