many specimens

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "many specimens" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a large number of samples or examples, often in scientific or research contexts. Example: "The researchers collected many specimens from various locations to study the effects of pollution on marine life."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

How many specimens?" he said.

The New Yorker

Many specimens of portolan charts have survived.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Many specimens continue to travel the globe.

The New Yorker

Extracting data from so many specimens is a huge task, so they need your help.

The Guardian

Paleoanthropologists agreed that it was stunning to find so many specimens, especially in such an unusual context.

The New Yorker

They aided botanists by sending many specimens to Paris and London.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He sent many specimens to the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C., before his recall in 1852.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Many specimens of early Eskimo sketch maps on skin, wood, and bone have been found.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The Texas inmate, Charles Chatman, who was serving 99 years for rape, was fortunate that Dallas County has saved many specimens.

The New York Times

It makes sense, then, that in the romantic-comedy world there are many specimens of women who — like Vulcans or Mothra — do not exist in real life.

The New Yorker

Dr. Lipkin is investigating what causes diseases like autism and cancer, and relies on comparing genetic sequences in as many specimens as possible.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "many specimens", ensure the context clearly defines what constitutes a 'specimen' to avoid ambiguity. Providing specific details about the specimens' characteristics enhances clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "many specimens" without providing sufficient context. Readers may struggle to understand the significance of the quantity without knowing the overall population size or the criteria for inclusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "many specimens" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object in a sentence. Ludwig confirms that this usage is grammatically correct and common. It signifies a quantifiable but unspecified large number of items under consideration, typically within scientific or analytical contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

43%

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Wiki

11%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "many specimens" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase, primarily employed in scientific, news-related, and encyclopedic contexts to denote a substantial number of samples or items. Ludwig confirms that the phrase is correct and usable in written English. While alternatives like "numerous samples" and "a multitude of examples" exist, "many specimens" remains a clear and effective way to convey the concept of quantity, especially in formal writing. To maximize clarity, specify the type of specimens referred to and the context in which they are relevant.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

numerous samples

Replaces "specimens" with "samples", implying a collection gathered for analysis or testing.

a multitude of examples

Substitutes "specimens" with "examples", focusing on the illustrative aspect of the collection.

a large quantity of samples

Emphasizes the abundance and the sampling aspect using "quantity".

significant number of samples

Highlights the size and importance of the sample collection.

an abundance of specimens

Replaces "many" with "an abundance", conveying a plentiful amount.

a host of examples

Uses "a host of" to express a large number, implying a diverse collection of examples.

various examples

Highlights variety, but the emphasis is less on quantity and more on diversity.

several specimens

Indicates a number greater than two but fewer than many, a less intense quantity.

a wide array of samples

Like "various", the focus shifts to the comprehensive nature of the samples, with quantity being a secondary aspect.

ample specimens

The word "ample" highlights the adequacy of the collected specimens.

FAQs

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

You can use "many specimens" when referring to a large number of samples or examples, especially in scientific or research contexts. For example, "The researchers analyzed "many specimens" to determine the effects of the new drug."

What are some alternatives to "many specimens"?

Alternatives include "numerous samples", "a multitude of examples", or "a large quantity of samples", depending on the specific context.

Is it more appropriate to use "many specimens" or "several specimens"?

The choice between "many specimens" and "several specimens" depends on the quantity you wish to convey. "Many" indicates a large number, while "several" suggests a smaller, undefined number greater than two.

In scientific writing, is "many specimens" considered formal enough?

Yes, "many specimens" is generally acceptable in scientific writing. However, for added formality, you might consider using phrases like "numerous specimens" or "a significant number of specimens".