in large numbers

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in large numbers" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when referring to a large quantity or amount of something. For example, "A large number of students attended the event."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Yes, in large numbers.

The Guardian

They vote, and in large numbers.

The New York Times

Sheep are kept in large numbers.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"They took in large numbers.

The New Yorker

"Do not congregate in large numbers.

The New York Times

Older people vote, and in large numbers.

The Guardian

Looking forward to death in large numbers".

The New Yorker

"Certainly they're still voting in large numbers.

The New York Times

And people do, in large numbers.

The Guardian

Yopougon voted in large numbers for Gbagbo.

The Guardian

I'm sure they'll travel here in large numbers.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in large numbers" to emphasize the significant quantity or frequency of something, adding impact to your statement. For example: "Volunteers arrived in large numbers to assist with the relief efforts."

Common error

Avoid using "in large numbers" when a more specific quantifier would provide greater clarity. Instead of saying "Animals died in large numbers", specify the approximate quantity (e.g. "Over 500 animals died").

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in large numbers" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs to describe the extent or quantity of an action or state. Ludwig's examples showcase its use in indicating significant participation, occurrence, or presence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Encyclopedias

10%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in large numbers" is a versatile and commonly used adverbial phrase that describes actions or states occurring with significant frequency or quantity. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and suitable for diverse contexts, primarily appearing in news and media, encyclopedias, and wiki sources. While "in large numbers" serves to emphasize magnitude, it's important to ensure its use aligns with the intended clarity and impact, opting for specific quantifiers when greater precision is needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in great quantities

Emphasizes the amount or volume of something.

in abundance

Highlights the plentiful or overflowing nature of something.

profusely

Implies something is happening or present to a great degree or extent.

in droves

Suggests people or things arriving or acting together as a crowd.

by the score

Indicates a count or tally of a considerable amount.

in bulk

Refers to dealing with or obtaining something in large quantities.

extensively

Points to something being done or present to a wide extent.

copiously

Indicates a generous or abundant supply or amount.

in heaps

Highlights the pile or mass formed by something.

galore

Emphasizes a plentiful amount or supply.

FAQs

How can I use "in large numbers" in a sentence?

You can use "in large numbers" to describe a situation where something occurs frequently or involves a significant quantity. For example: "People attended the concert in large numbers."

What are some alternatives to saying "in large numbers"?

You can use alternatives like "in great quantities", "in abundance", or "profusely", depending on the specific context.

Is it more formal to use "in large numbers" or another similar phrase?

"In large numbers" is generally considered neutral in formality. More formal alternatives might include phrases such as "in significant quantities" or "in substantial amounts", while more informal options could include "in droves".

Which is correct: "a large number" or "in large numbers"?

Both phrases are correct, but they have different meanings. "A large number" refers to a specific, countable quantity, while "in large numbers" describes the manner in which something occurs or is present. For example: "A large number of birds migrated south", versus "Birds migrated south in large numbers".