a lot of boxes

USAGE SUMMARY

"a lot of boxes" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a large number of containers. For example: I had to move a lot of boxes to the new apartment.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"He's ticking a lot of boxes," he said.

The Guardian - Sport

"Danny ticks a lot of boxes," said the Scot.

Independent

Notwithstanding the absent plot, Whitehead ticks a lot of boxes.

The New York Times - Books

So Australia - Bangladesh is already ticking a lot of boxes".

The Guardian - Sport

She ticked a lot of boxes for Bravo at the time.

The New Yorker

Home Again's strength lies in the fact that it manages to tick a lot of boxes without sounding like it set out to tick a lot of boxes.

The Guardian - Music

There's a lot of boxes that need ticking in children's television.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

The iPhone 7 Plus will tick a lot of boxes for many iPhone buyers.

The Guardian - Tech

Sometimes having a location that ticks a lot of boxes is not enough.

The Guardian - Sport

"There is a utilitarianism and functionality about it; it ticks a lot of boxes".

The Guardian - Business

The FuelBand SE ticks a lot of boxes for an activity tracker.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using “a lot of boxes” metaphorically, ensure the context clearly indicates whether you're referring to literal containers or abstract criteria. This prevents misunderstanding.

Common error

While “a lot of boxes” is acceptable, overuse can make writing seem informal. In formal contexts, consider more precise alternatives such as “numerous requirements” or “multiple criteria” to maintain professionalism.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a lot of boxes" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It can refer to physical containers or, metaphorically, to criteria or requirements, as shown in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a lot of boxes" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to denote a large quantity of physical containers or, metaphorically, a significant number of requirements or criteria. As confirmed by Ludwig, its usage spans various contexts, primarily in news and media, though it's advisable to consider more formal alternatives like "numerous items" or "multiple criteria" in professional settings. While versatile, clarity is crucial to avoid ambiguity between its literal and metaphorical meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

numerous containers

Focuses on the physical aspect of having many containers, omitting the implied tasks or requirements.

many packages

Highlights the presence of multiple parcels, shifting the focus from general containers to specifically wrapped items.

various crates

Emphasizes a variety of wooden containers, differing from the general term of boxes.

several cartons

Specifies the type of container as cartons, narrowing the scope from all types of boxes.

numerous items

Shifts focus from containers to the contents, generalizing the idea of many things instead of specific containers.

many requirements

Interprets "boxes" metaphorically as criteria to meet, abstracting away from the physical sense.

multiple criteria

Highlights the number of requirements or standards, moving away from the concrete image of physical boxes.

extensive checklist

Emphasizes a detailed list of items or tasks, abstracting the idea of boxes as points in a list.

a series of steps

Focuses on the progression through a process, where each 'box' represents a stage or task.

comprehensive standards

Implies a full set of benchmarks or criteria that need to be met, moving further away from literal boxes.

FAQs

How can I use "a lot of boxes" in a sentence?

You can use "a lot of boxes" to refer to a large number of physical containers, as in, "I had to move "a lot of boxes" when I moved". Alternatively, you can use it metaphorically to mean many requirements or criteria, as in, "This candidate ticks "a lot of boxes" for the job".

What are some alternatives to saying "a lot of boxes"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "numerous containers" for physical items, or "many requirements" or "multiple criteria" when referring to abstract conditions that need to be met.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a lot of boxes"?

"A lot of boxes" is suitable for informal or neutral contexts. In more formal writing, consider using more precise and professional alternatives like "numerous items" or "extensive checklist".

Is "a lot of boxes" grammatically correct?

Yes, "a lot of boxes" is grammatically correct. "Lot" can be used as a noun meaning a large quantity or number, and it is correctly followed by the preposition "of" and the plural noun "boxes".