many instruments

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "many instruments" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a large number of tools, devices, or musical instruments in various contexts. Example: "The orchestra was filled with many instruments, creating a rich and harmonious sound."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Plays many instruments, as demonstrated at Palace Theatre.

The New Yorker

There are many instruments playing, and it makes sense.

The New York Times - Arts

"Before, it was different because there weren't many instruments, not many devices or drugs," she says.

The New York Times

The sarode is only one of the many instruments which Mr. Khan plays.

The New Yorker

The performance integrates many instruments, amplified in dissimilar ways, with no feedback.

The New Yorker

He easily mastered many instruments, including the flute, clarinet, bugle, violin, guitar and piano.

The New York Times

He banged out tunes on the accordion, piano and organ, three of the many instruments he played.

The New York Times

Guests were encouraged to go up onstage and play one of the many instruments Dr. McIntyre had brought along.

The New York Times - Style

It uses many instruments usually heard at halftime at high school football games, including trumpets, trombones and snare drums.

The New York Times

"I didn't even know if it was possible to play it live or how many instruments we would need".

The New York Times - Arts

When so many instruments are synthesised, perhaps, or rely on digital processing, the trumpet begins to lose its trumpet-ness.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing musical arrangements, be specific about the types of instruments to give the reader a clearer understanding of the sound.

Common error

Avoid using "many instruments" as a vague description; instead, specify the instruments or their categories (e.g., "a string section, brass ensemble, and percussion battery") for more descriptive and engaging writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "many instruments" functions as a quantifier phrase, modifying a noun. Ludwig indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used. It often serves to describe the quantity of tools or musical equipment.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

43%

News & Media

34%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "many instruments" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to denote a substantial quantity of tools, devices, or musical instruments. According to Ludwig, this phrase is correct and usable in a wide array of contexts, from scientific research to news reports. Its usage spans various domains, most frequently in Science and News & Media. While generally neutral in register, it benefits from specific descriptions to enhance clarity. Alternatives like "various instruments" or "numerous instruments" can offer nuanced variations. The high frequency and broad applicability confirm its status as a common and useful phrase in English writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a multitude of instruments

Emphasizes a very large number of instruments.

various instruments

Highlights the diversity and assortment of instruments.

numerous instruments

Stresses a considerable quantity of instruments.

a wide array of instruments

Indicates a broad selection and range of instruments.

a host of instruments

Suggests a large and impressive collection of instruments.

an abundance of instruments

Implies a plentiful and ample supply of instruments.

several instruments

Refers to more than a few instruments, but not an overwhelming number.

multiple instruments

Simply indicates that there are more than one instrument involved.

a range of instruments

Focuses on the spectrum and variety of instruments available.

an assortment of instruments

Highlights a collection of different types of instruments.

FAQs

How can I use "many instruments" in a sentence?

You can use "many instruments" to describe a large number of musical instruments, tools, or devices in a given context. For example, "The orchestra used "many instruments" to create a complex symphony".

What can I say instead of "many instruments"?

You can use alternatives like "various instruments", "numerous instruments", or "a multitude of instruments" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "many instruments" or list the instruments?

Listing specific instruments provides a more detailed and vivid description. However, ""many instruments"" is appropriate when a general sense of quantity is sufficient or when the specific instruments are not the focus.

What does it mean when a song uses "many instruments"?

When a song uses ""many instruments"", it typically indicates a rich and complex arrangement, potentially creating a full, layered sound or diverse textures and timbres.