a host of something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a host of something" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a large number or variety of things or people. Example: "The conference attracted a host of experts from various fields."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Michael Campbell led a host of 40-somethings atop the leader board at the Hong Kong Open, while Rory McIlroy, the defending champion, failed to make the cut.

The New York Times - Sports

It looks like a Sweet 16 party being held for a host of 20-somethings.

Vice

I don't think I'm a natural fit for a feelgood host of something.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"Whether it is the US government, Apple, a host of companies, cybercrime is something we all need to get better at defending ourselves against," she said.

The Guardian - Business

"Whether it is the US government, Apple, [or] a host of companies, cybercrime is something we all need to get better at defending ourselves against," she said.

The Guardian - Business

His first job in radio was at New Rochelle's WVOX-FM in 1969, where he was the host of "Something Else Again," a Sunday night show and the first progressive rock program on Westchester radio.

The New York Times

Auster, who once did a stint on public radio as the host of something called the National Story Project, which solicited real-life yarns from listeners, has a highly developed ear for authentic-seeming farfetched narratives.

The New York Times - Books

However, in an industry where companies are scampering to move to the cloud and take advantage of the efficiencies Big Data tools can provide, Zephyr wants to increase its value proposition for industry players by going beyond data integration — something a host of solutions now offer, whether industry-specific or not.

TechCrunch

There are a host of factors to consider: finding something that works and that is affordable, accessible and makes you feel good.

Los Angeles Times

My experiences both socially and emotionally have sort of prepared me to be the host of something and to help people communicate with each other and to listen to each other.

Forbes

There are also a host of new signature services available, including something called Family Store which allows family members to communicate with each other, workout services that can track your weight with a wireless scale (ties in to a phone app), an app that lets you track what kids are watching, and smart interaction.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "a host of something" to introduce a variety or a large number of items or entities. Ensure the 'something' accurately reflects the nature of the items being described for clear communication.

Common error

While "a host of something" is acceptable in many contexts, avoid overuse in highly formal writing. Alternatives such as "numerous" or "a wide range of" may offer a more polished tone.

Linguistic Context

"A host of something" functions as a determiner phrase. It introduces a noun phrase, specifying that the noun phrase refers to a large number or a wide variety of items, entities, or concepts. Ludwig confirms the grammatical correctness of this phrase.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

News & Media

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Formal & Business

0%

Science

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Less common in

Wiki

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Encyclopedias

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a host of something" is a grammatically sound way to indicate a large number or variety of items, entities, or concepts. While Ludwig indicates that no explicit examples were found in the provided data, it is nonetheless recognized as a correct and usable phrase in English. In formal or business contexts you may want to use alternatives such as "numerous" or "a wide array of" for a more polished tone, while acknowledging that the phrase is commonly encountered in news and general media. Therefore, according to Ludwig, the choice depends on register and desired emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a multitude of things

Replaces "host" with "multitude", emphasizing a large number, and specifies "things" as the subject.

a wide array of items

Substitutes "host" with "array" and "something" with "items", suggesting a diverse collection.

numerous kinds of things

Replaces "a host of" with "numerous kinds of", providing a more descriptive alternative to indicate variety.

various types of items

Similar to the previous phrase, but uses "various types" for emphasis on diversity.

a great deal of stuff

Uses a more informal term, "stuff", to replace "something", suggesting a large quantity of unspecified items.

an abundance of items

Replaces "host" with "abundance", highlighting the plentiful nature of the items.

a plethora of choices

Substitutes with "plethora", indicating an excessive amount or overabundance of options.

a large quantity of goods

Specifies "goods", providing a more concrete noun in place of "something".

several sorts of things

Emphasizes the variety with "several sorts", indicating multiple categories or types.

a range of options

Focuses on the availability of "options", suitable when referring to choices or possibilities.

FAQs

How can I use "a host of something" in a sentence?

You can use "a host of something" to indicate a large number or variety of things. For example, "The conference covered a host of important topics".

What can I say instead of "a host of something"?

You can use alternatives like "a multitude of things", "a wide array of items", or "numerous kinds of things" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "a host of something" in formal writing?

While generally acceptable, consider more formal alternatives like "numerous" or "a wide range of" for a more polished tone, especially in academic or business contexts.

What's the difference between "a host of something" and "many things"?

"A host of something" implies a larger and often more diverse collection than simply saying "many things". It suggests a significant quantity with some inherent variety.