But while a few dozen large banks across the country are now far advanced in numerical ratings of loans, much work remains to be done.

The response among some schools has been to bury tracking beneath a welter of numerical ratings.

Each entry - and this may be all most people look at - also includes numerical ratings.

Participants give numerical ratings on a scale of 1 to 5 in three different categories to their current or former teachers.

The numerical ratings, which range from 1 through 4, measure only the likelihood that debts will be repaid on time.

Most wine critics combine their prose with a numerical rating.

Hundreds of wines are advertised every week with no comment other than a numerical rating.

The Spectator gives numerical ratings as well, on a scale of 100.

The handbook's usefulness is enhanced by the numerical ratings for each rose.

To flesh out an athlete in the video game, his skill is given a numerical rating based on the real-life player's performance.