a multitude

USAGE SUMMARY

"a multitude" is correct and usable in written English.
It is a noun phrase that refers to a large group of people or things. For example, you could write, "The conference brought together a multitude of scientists from around the world."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

A multitude of things.

The New York Times - Sports

#TrumpBible Love covers a multitude of sins.

The New Yorker

A multitude of characters.

The New York Times

It served a multitude of purposes.

The New York Times

A multitude of questions and doubts arises.

The New York Times - Arts

There is a multitude of surviving documents.

The New Yorker

We've had a multitude of problems".

The New York Times

There's a multitude of toe styles, a multitude of colors.

The New York Times

A multitude pressed and swayed around him.

The New York Times

"We are a multitude," muses Sagan.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

I was certain there was a multitude like me, elsewhere.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a multitude", consider the context. It often implies a large, almost overwhelming number, so ensure it aligns with what you're describing. For example, "a multitude of opportunities" suggests numerous possibilities, not just a few.

Common error

Avoid using "a multitude" when a smaller, more precise number would be more accurate. Saying "a multitude of attendees" when there were only 20 people diminishes the impact and credibility of your statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a multitude" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as the subject, object, or complement in a sentence. It denotes a large number or quantity, as illustrated in the Ludwig examples, such as "A multitude of questions and doubts arises". Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

17%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a multitude" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed noun phrase that signifies a large quantity. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. It's well-suited for various contexts, particularly in news, media, and scientific writing, where conveying scale and significance is important. While versatile, it's essential to use it judiciously, ensuring that the number described truly warrants the term. Alternatives such as "many", "a great number", or "a host of" can provide nuanced substitutes, depending on the specific context and desired tone. Finally, always consider whether a more precise number would strengthen your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a large number

This is a direct and commonly used substitute, focusing on the numerical aspect.

a great many

This alternative is slightly more formal than "a large number", but retains a similar meaning.

a host of

This implies a large and often impressive collection of things.

a myriad of

This emphasizes the vastness and variety of the things being described.

numerous

This adjective directly describes that something occurs in great quantity.

many

The most direct and simple synonym.

a plethora of

This emphasizes an excessive or abundant quantity, often implying more than is necessary.

an abundance of

Highlights the plentiful nature of something.

a profusion of

Emphasizes the lavish or extravagant display of something.

innumerable

Highlights the countlessness of something.

FAQs

How can I use "a multitude" in a sentence?

You can use "a multitude" to describe a large number of things or people. For instance, "The project faced "a multitude of challenges" during its development."

What's a less formal way to say "a multitude"?

If you're aiming for a less formal tone, consider using "many" or "a lot of" as alternatives.

Is it ever incorrect to use "a multitude"?

While grammatically correct, using "a multitude" might be an overstatement if the actual number is small. In such cases, using "several" or "a few" would be more appropriate.

What are some synonyms for "a multitude" that still convey a sense of largeness?

Alternatives such as "a great number", "a host of", or "a myriad of" can effectively express a large quantity while adding nuance to your writing.