inordinate amount

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "inordinate amount" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a quantity that is excessive or beyond what is considered normal or reasonable. Example: "The project required an inordinate amount of time and resources, leading to delays in its completion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

THE NEW YORKER: Everyone's having an inordinate amount of fun.

The New Yorker

People are under an inordinate amount of stress.

The New York Times - Sports

"There is an inordinate amount of vacant land.

The New York Times - Arts

I've received an inordinate amount of feedback to this response.

The New York Times - Magazine

The Lakers showcase an inordinate amount of depth.

The New York Times

Our customers give us an inordinate amount of data.

The Guardian - Business

The kitchen has an inordinate amount of fun with dessert.

The New York Times

An inordinate amount of time was spent haggling with clients.

The New York Times

They also cause an inordinate amount of brain freeze.

The New Yorker

"He spent an inordinate amount of time with attorneys.

The New York Times

I do spend in inordinate amount of time studying cosmetics.

The New York Times - Style

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "inordinate amount" to express that something is surprisingly large or excessive, often implying it is undesirable or problematic. For example, "The project required an inordinate amount of resources, leading to delays."

Common error

Avoid using "inordinate amount" simply to mean 'a lot'. It carries a negative connotation of excessiveness or being out of proportion. If you intend to convey a large quantity without a negative judgment, consider using "significant amount" or "substantial amount" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "inordinate amount" functions as a determiner phrase modifying a noun. Ludwig AI confirms it describes a quantity or degree that is surprisingly large or excessive. It highlights the noun it modifies.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Science

8%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "inordinate amount" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a quantity that is surprisingly large or excessive. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is accurate and highlights a degree beyond what is normal. While suitable for various contexts, it's especially prevalent in news and media, where it serves to emphasize disproportionate or undesirable quantities. When using this phrase, be mindful of its slightly negative connotation and choose it carefully to ensure it aligns with your intended meaning. Consider using alternatives such as "excessive amount" or "undue amount" when a neutral tone is needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

excessive quantity

Emphasizes the surplus nature of the amount.

undue quantity

Highlights the inappropriateness or unjustified nature of the amount.

disproportionate quantity

Focuses on the lack of balance or fair distribution in the amount.

exorbitant quantity

Stresses the unreasonableness or outrageousness of the amount.

unreasonable quantity

Highlights the impracticality or lack of justification for the amount.

surplus quantity

Indicates that there is more than is needed.

gratuitous quantity

Suggests the amount is unnecessary or uncalled for.

extreme quantity

Emphasizes the intensity and unusually large scale of the amount.

immoderate quantity

Implies a lack of restraint or control in the amount.

remarkable quantity

Emphasizes how worthy the amount is of attention or surprising.

FAQs

How can I use "inordinate amount" in a sentence?

Use "inordinate amount" to describe something that is excessive or disproportionate. For example, "He spent an "inordinate amount" of time on the project" or "There was an "inordinate amount" of traffic due to the accident."

What are some alternatives to "inordinate amount"?

You can use alternatives such as "excessive amount", "undue amount", or "disproportionate amount" depending on the context.

Is it better to use "inordinate amount" or "excessive amount"?

Both phrases are similar, but "inordinate amount" often implies a sense of surprise or disapproval at the excess, while "excessive amount" simply indicates that there is too much of something. The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "inordinate amount" and "considerable amount"?

"Inordinate amount" implies that the quantity is excessive and potentially problematic, while "considerable amount" simply means that the quantity is significant or noteworthy, without necessarily implying a negative judgment.