a multitude of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a multitude of" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are referring to a large number of things or people. For example, "The new restaurant offers a multitude of different dishes on their menu."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

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

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

A multitude of characters.

The New York Times

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

The New York Times

This covers a multitude of sins.

The Guardian - Business

"There are a multitude of causes.

The Guardian

It was a multitude of things.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a multitude of" to add emphasis when describing a large quantity or variety, particularly when you want to convey a sense of impressiveness or abundance. For example, "The museum showcased "a multitude of" artifacts from ancient civilizations".

Common error

Avoid using "a multitude of" when referring to a single item or concept. "Multitude" implies plurality, so using it in a singular context is grammatically incorrect. For example, instead of saying "The project faced "a multitude of" challenge", say "The project faced a multitude of challenges".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a multitude of" functions as a determiner modifying a noun. Ludwig AI confirms that it indicates a large quantity or number of something. The phrase serves to emphasize the abundance or variety of the noun it modifies.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a multitude of" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to denote a large quantity or wide variety. Ludwig AI validates its proper usage across numerous contexts. It functions as a determiner, adding emphasis to the noun it modifies. While suitable for both neutral and formal registers, its presence is more evident in News & Media and Science sources. For alternative expressions, consider "a great number of" or "an abundance of", as suggested in the related phrases. Remember to use "a multitude of" only when referring to plural nouns, avoiding singular contexts. The widespread presence of this phrase across various authoritative sources confirms its validity and applicability in modern English writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a great number of

Emphasizes the quantity, focusing on the count rather than variety.

a large quantity of

Highlights the amount or volume of something.

a vast array of

Suggests a wide and impressive selection or arrangement.

an abundance of

Focuses on the plentiful and readily available nature of something.

a wide range of

Indicates a diverse and comprehensive assortment.

a host of

Implies a large and often impressive gathering or collection.

a myriad of

Suggests a countless or extremely large number.

numerous

A more concise and direct way to indicate a large number.

many

A simple and common way to express a large quantity.

a profusion of

Emphasizes the extravagant or excessive abundance of something.

FAQs

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

"A multitude of" is used to describe a large number of things or people. For instance, you might say, "A multitude of factors contributed to the project's success".

What are some synonyms for "a multitude of"?

Alternatives to "a multitude of" include "a great number of", "an abundance of", or "a wide range of", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

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

Yes, "a multitude of" is suitable for formal writing. It's a more sophisticated way of saying "many" or "a lot of" and can add emphasis to your writing.

What's the difference between "a multitude of" and "many"?

While both indicate a large quantity, "a multitude of" suggests a greater number and often implies a diverse or varied collection. "Many" is a more general term, whereas "a multitude of" adds a sense of impressiveness.