multiple characters

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "multiple characters" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to more than one character in a story, game, or any context involving individuals or figures. Example: "The novel features multiple characters, each with their own unique backstory and motivations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Multiple characters were killed with poisoned moonshine.

The New York Times

There are multiple characters named Karen Grisham.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Charles Dickens wrote long, complex books with multiple characters that were hugely popular.

The Guardian

With multiple characters and complex plots, long-form TV dramas are closer to novels than films.

The Guardian

The plot, comprising multiple characters and small but crucial incidents, is told entirely visually.

The Guardian - Film

So, he said, he had the idea of creating a film of multiple characters.

The New York Times - Arts

Ventriloquists like Jimmy Nelson would switch voices rapidly while operating multiple characters.

The New York Times - Magazine

After this film's success, playing multiple characters became a Murphy staple.

The Guardian

In Chinese, there are multiple characters with the exact same sound.

The New York Times

On a trans-Atlantic cruise, multiple characters experience the deceptions of magic, relationships and language itself.

The New York Times - Books

With four actors playing multiple characters, extremely speedy costume changes are called for.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about fiction, use "multiple characters" to clearly indicate that a story has more than one significant figure, especially when emphasizing the interplay between them.

Common error

Avoid using "multiple characters" when referring to a single character with dissociative identity disorder. In that case, use "a character with multiple personalities" or "a character with dissociative identity disorder" to be accurate and sensitive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "multiple characters" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It serves to denote the presence of more than one character in a given context, whether it's a story, game, or other scenario.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "multiple characters" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to indicate the presence of more than one character in a narrative or setting. Ludwig AI validates its correctness, further supported by numerous examples across varied contexts, including news, science, and wiki articles. While synonyms such as "several characters" or "numerous characters" exist, the choice depends on the specific nuance desired. A key point to remember is to avoid confusing this phrase with terms related to mental health conditions, such as dissociative identity disorder. In those cases, it is recommended to use alternative expressions. Overall, "multiple characters" serves as a straightforward and versatile term for describing the composition of a story or situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

several characters

Replaces "multiple" with "several", indicating more than two but not necessarily a large number.

many characters

A simpler, more direct way of saying there are a lot of characters.

numerous characters

Uses "numerous" to suggest a large number of characters, emphasizing quantity.

various characters

Emphasizes the diversity or variety among the characters.

a range of characters

Highlights the spectrum or assortment of characters present.

assortment of characters

Similar to 'range of characters' but slightly more informal.

diverse cast of characters

Focuses on the varied backgrounds or traits of the characters.

host of characters

Suggests a large and possibly overwhelming number of characters.

complex characters

Implies that the characters are intricate and well-developed.

multiple personalities

Specifically refers to a single character with several distinct personalities.

FAQs

How can I use "multiple characters" in a sentence?

You can use "multiple characters" to describe a narrative with several key figures. For example, "The play features "multiple characters", each contributing to the complex plot."

What can I say instead of "multiple characters"?

You can use alternatives like "several characters", "numerous characters", or "various characters" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "a multiple character" instead of "multiple characters"?

No, "a multiple character" is grammatically incorrect. The correct phrasing is ""multiple characters"" when referring to more than one character. You might say "a character with multiple personalities", which is a different concept.

What's the difference between "multiple characters" and "complex characters"?

"Multiple characters" simply indicates that there are more than one characters. "Complex characters", on the other hand, describes the depth and intricacy of the characters' personalities and motivations, regardless of how many there are.