large numbers

USAGE SUMMARY

"large numbers" is correct and can be used in written English.
For example, "Large numbers of people have been evacuated from the area due to the storm."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Large numbers were subsequently arrested.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Yes, in large numbers.

The Guardian

They vote, and in large numbers.

The New York Times

Large numbers are difficult to visualize.

The New York Times - Books

Large numbers of menhaden are netted annually.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Therapeutic cloning requires large numbers of eggs.

The Economist

There are large numbers still in prison.

The New Yorker

But anyone can throw around large numbers.

The Economist

This is the law of large numbers.

The Economist

Sheep are kept in large numbers.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Large numbers already feel abstract.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "large numbers", ensure the context provides a clear reference point for comparison. For instance, "large numbers of students" is more impactful if the total student population is known.

Common error

Avoid using "large numbers" when specific figures are available. Saying "approximately 5000 people" is more informative than "large numbers of people" if the exact figure is known.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "large numbers" primarily functions as a quantifier, modifying a noun to indicate a significant quantity or amount. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is grammatically correct, appearing across diverse contexts. For example, it can describe populations, objects, or abstract concepts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "large numbers" is a versatile and grammatically sound way to indicate a significant quantity without specifying an exact figure. As Ludwig AI demonstrates, its common usage spans across news, encyclopedias, and scientific contexts. When writing, make sure to use precise figures when available. If a general sense of scale is all that is required or possible, "large numbers" serves well. While there are alternatives such as "substantial quantity" or "a great many", the choice depends on the specific context and desired emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a great many

An idiomatic alternative that replaces "large numbers" with a more qualitative expression of quantity.

substantial quantity

Replaces "numbers" with "quantity" and uses "substantial" instead of "large", emphasizing the amount.

a multitude of

Uses "multitude" to convey a sense of numerousness, often implying variety within the large quantity.

vast quantities

Emphasizes scale with "vast" instead of "large", highlighting the immensity.

countless instances

Implies that the numbers are so big that it's impossible or very difficult to count them.

significant amount

Focuses on "amount" rather than "numbers", suggesting a considerable measure of something.

numerous instances

Focuses on individual occurrences with "instances", replacing "numbers" to highlight repetition.

considerable proportion

Implies that "large numbers" make up a notable fraction or percentage of a whole.

a high volume

Shifts the focus to "volume", suggesting a large capacity or throughput.

plenty of

Offers a more casual alternative, suggesting an abundance or sufficiency.

FAQs

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

Use "large numbers" to indicate a significant quantity without specifying an exact amount. For example, "Large numbers of people attended the concert."

What are some alternatives to "large numbers"?

You can use alternatives like "substantial quantity", "significant amount", or "a great many" depending on the context.

Is it better to use "large numbers" or specific figures?

If you have precise data, use specific figures for clarity. Use "large numbers" when you want to convey a general sense of quantity without exactness, or when precise figures are unknown.

In what contexts is "large numbers" most appropriate?

"Large numbers" is suitable in contexts where a precise count is not necessary or available, and the emphasis is on the significant quantity or scale. It is broadly applicable, as shown by the examples from news reports, encyclopedias, and scientific articles.