a multiplicity of

USAGE SUMMARY

'a multiplicity of' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a large, varied number or amount of something. For example, "This year's festival features a multiplicity of musical performances."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It evolved from a multiplicity of sources.

Independent

Our program addresses a multiplicity of needs".

The New York Times

A government has a multiplicity of choices.

The Guardian

There are a multiplicity of systems.

Harvard Business Review

But actually, a multiplicity of places exists.

Harvard University

In the future, there will be a multiplicity of voices".

The New York Times

Yerushalmy really did present a multiplicity of utterances.

The New Yorker

Even more than before, it collects a multiplicity of voices.

The New York Times - Arts

She directs our gaze towards a multiplicity of wildlife.

The Guardian - Books

A multiplicity of voices and viewpoints are heard.

The Guardian - Film

We must not have a multiplicity of mediators".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a multiplicity of" when you want to emphasize not just a large number, but also the varied nature of the items or concepts involved. For instance, "The project requires a multiplicity of skills."

Common error

Avoid using "a multiplicity of" in contexts where simpler alternatives like "many" or "various" would suffice. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound unnecessarily verbose. Consider a more direct approach when appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a multiplicity of" functions as a determiner, specifically a quantifier, modifying a noun to indicate a large and diverse quantity. It is used to emphasize not only the number but also the variety of the items being referred to. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically sound and frequently employed.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Academia

25%

Science

22%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

6%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a multiplicity of" is a versatile phrase used to indicate a large and varied number of items or concepts. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct. While it's commonly found in news, academic, and scientific writing, it's essential to avoid overuse in simpler contexts where words like "many" or "various" would suffice. When used appropriately, it emphasizes not just the quantity but also the diversity of the subject matter. Remember to choose alternatives like "a multitude of" or "a variety of" to maintain clarity and avoid wordiness. Paying attention to these nuances will enhance your writing and ensure effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a multitude of

Replaces "multiplicity" with "multitude", emphasizing a large number.

a variety of

Focuses on the diverse nature of the items or concepts.

a wide range of

Highlights the breadth of options or possibilities.

an abundance of

Stresses the plentiful quantity of something.

numerous

A concise adjective indicating a large number.

many

A simple and direct synonym for a large quantity.

several

Indicates more than two, but not a large number.

a host of

Emphasizes a large and impressive collection.

a great number of

Directly states a large quantity.

various

Highlights the different types or kinds.

FAQs

How can I use "a multiplicity of" in a sentence?

You can use "a multiplicity of" to indicate a large number or variety of something. For example, "The study examined "a multiplicity of" factors contributing to the disease."

What are some alternatives to "a multiplicity of"?

Some alternatives include "a multitude of", "a variety of", or simply "many", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "a multiplicity of reasons" or "many reasons"?

While both are grammatically correct, "many reasons" is often more concise and suitable for informal contexts. "A multiplicity of reasons" adds a layer of formality and emphasis on variety.

How does "a multiplicity of" differ from "a plurality of"?

"A multiplicity of" emphasizes both the large number and the diverse nature of the items, while "a plurality of" simply indicates that there are multiple items, without necessarily implying variety.