a multitude of characters

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a multitude of characters" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a large number of characters in a story, play, or any other narrative context. Example: "The novel features a multitude of characters, each with their own unique backstory and motivations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Books

Arts

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

A multitude of characters.

The New York Times

In her videos on social media, Cardi plays a multitude of characters.

The New Yorker

"There are some anecdotal connections between his story and a multitude of characters," Simon said.

The Guardian

Playing a multitude of characters who age and morph in alarming ways, the ensemble members work hard.

The New York Times

A multitude of characters, unified in their dreams of prosperity, carve out lives in a fictional outpost on the Olympic Peninsula in this broad-spectrum novel.

The New York Times - Books

Mitchell's book is not a simple read, with its interlocking stories and a multitude of characters, distributed across centuries and continents.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

Spread across Foreman's crowded canvas is a multitude of gaudy characters, British and American, famous and obscure.

The New Yorker

As well as a multitude of recognisable characters and locations, the series has lashings of intergenerational appeal.

The Economist

"The Street of a Thousand Blossoms" has epic ambitions — considerable scope, encompassing the years 1939-66; a multitude of significant characters; and recurring moments of tragedy and redemption.

The New York Times - Books

Two superb actresses (Tracey Bonner and January LaVoy) play a multitude of other characters, and Ron OJ Parson's production sails on the life-worn humor of Williams's script.

The New Yorker

It all begins simply enough, but soon you're dealing with a multitude of linked characters, strands, themes and red herrings – and you need to try to control these unruly elements and weave them into a pattern.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using synonyms like "a variety of characters" or "numerous characters" to avoid repetition in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "a multitude of characters" when a more specific description of the type of characters is possible (e.g., "a cast of eccentric personalities" instead of "a multitude of characters").

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a multitude of characters" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. According to Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Books

17%

Arts

11%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Science

8%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a multitude of characters" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe a large number of individuals in various contexts, as confirmed by Ludwig. It serves to emphasize the breadth and diversity of individuals involved, particularly in narratives and performances. While versatile, consider using synonyms like "a variety of characters" for enhanced specificity and to avoid repetition. Ludwig Examples highlight the phrase's common usage in News & Media, Books, and Arts, indicating its neutral register and broad applicability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a variety of characters

Replaces "multitude" with "variety", suggesting diversity rather than sheer number.

a host of characters

Uses "host" to imply a large and possibly impressive number of characters.

a range of characters

Emphasizes the spectrum or scope of different characters.

a diversity of characters

Highlights the differences and varied nature of the characters.

numerous characters

A more straightforward synonym emphasizing a large count.

many characters

A simpler and more direct way to express the same idea.

a great number of characters

More verbose but conveys a large quantity.

an abundance of characters

Suggests a plentiful or overflowing amount of characters.

a plethora of characters

Similar to abundance, indicating an excessive amount.

a sea of characters

Uses a metaphorical comparison to a vast, overwhelming quantity.

FAQs

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

You can use "a multitude of characters" to describe the expansive cast in a novel, play, or other narrative. For example, "The play featured "a multitude of characters", each contributing to the complex storyline."

What phrases are similar to "a multitude of characters"?

Alternatives include "a variety of characters", "numerous characters", or "many characters" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "a multitude of characters" or "many characters"?

"A multitude of characters" suggests a larger and more diverse group than "many characters". The choice depends on the specific emphasis you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "a multitude of characters"?

It is appropriate when you want to emphasize the sheer number and potentially the diversity of characters involved in a particular context, such as a book, movie, or event.