SpeakUp

Grammar fix

growing number

increasing amount

used to talk about something that is becoming more common or happening more often over time.

collocationB1common

Hear it in context

Notice where the phrase sounds natural.

  • A growing number of people are choosing to work from home.society
  • In my opinion, a growing number of students are interested in studying abroad because it offers more opportunities.IELTS speaking

Fix the pattern

Pattern: a growing number of + plural noun

WrongA growing number of people works from home.

RightA growing number of people work from home.

The verb agrees with the plural 'people' — use 'work', not 'works'.

Patterna growing number of + plural noun

Use it right

Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.

Stiff An ever-increasing quantity of individuals work remotely.

Natural A growing number of people work from home.

'A growing number of' is the natural set phrase. 'Ever-increasing quantity of individuals' is overwrought.

Build natural chunks

Words that usually travel with it.

  • a growing number of
    peoplecompaniesstudentscases

Don't confuse it

Compare with 'increasing amount', which is used for uncountable nouns.

Try it in Daily Speak →