multitude of characters

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "multitude of characters" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a large number of characters in a story, game, or any other context where characters are present. Example: "The novel features a multitude of characters, each with their own unique backstory and motivations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

A multitude of characters.

The New York Times

In her videos on social media, Cardi plays a multitude of characters.

The New Yorker

"There are some anecdotal connections between his story and a multitude of characters," Simon said.

The Guardian

Playing a multitude of characters who age and morph in alarming ways, the ensemble members work hard.

The New York Times

Mitchell's book is not a simple read, with its interlocking stories and a multitude of characters, distributed across centuries and continents.

The New Yorker

From Henry's death, he spirals back to the history of a multitude of characters whose stories begin as faraway trickles before they swell into rivers.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

The strength of Aswany's novels is that they are able to reflect this, with their multitudes of characters evoking the many facets of Egyptian life: faded colonial elegance and the sclerotic hold of a corrupt dictator, Western influence and Islamic fervor, the enduring hardships borne by the very poor from generation to generation.

The New Yorker

Spread across Foreman's crowded canvas is a multitude of gaudy characters, British and American, famous and obscure.

The New Yorker

As well as a multitude of recognisable characters and locations, the series has lashings of intergenerational appeal.

The Economist

Two superb actresses (Tracey Bonner and January LaVoy) play a multitude of other characters, and Ron OJ Parson's production sails on the life-worn humor of Williams's script.

The New Yorker

"The Street of a Thousand Blossoms" has epic ambitions — considerable scope, encompassing the years 1939-66; a multitude of significant characters; and recurring moments of tragedy and redemption.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "multitude of characters", ensure that the context provides some detail or implication of their diversity or complexity, not just their number. This enhances the impact of the phrase.

Common error

Avoid using "multitude of characters" when a simpler term like "many characters" would suffice. Overusing complex phrasing can make your writing sound pretentious. Ask yourself if "many" or "several" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "multitude of characters" functions as a noun phrase that typically acts as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a large quantity of individual characters, often within a narrative context. Ludwig confirms this with several examples from reputable sources.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "multitude of characters" is a grammatically sound and relatively common phrase used to describe a large number of characters, usually within a narrative. As indicated by Ludwig, this expression is most frequently found in news and media, as well as encyclopedic and scientific content. While the phrase is correct, using simpler alternatives like "many characters" may sometimes be more appropriate to avoid pretentiousness. Ensure that using "multitude of characters" adds value by implying diversity or complexity. Understanding these nuances can help enhance your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

variety of characters

Changes the noun from "multitude" to "variety", indicating a diverse group.

host of characters

Replaces "multitude" with "host", suggesting a large gathering or collection.

abundance of characters

Substitutes "multitude" with "abundance", emphasizing plentifulness.

plethora of characters

Uses "plethora" instead of "multitude", conveying a sense of excess.

large number of characters

Rephrases the phrase to be more literal, using "large number" instead of "multitude".

wide array of characters

Emphasizes diversity and range with "wide array".

diverse cast of characters

Highlights the varied nature of the characters using "diverse cast".

numerous characters

Simplifies the phrase by using the adjective "numerous".

many characters

Uses a simpler, more direct expression.

several characters

Indicates a considerable, though not overwhelming, quantity of characters.

FAQs

How can I use "multitude of characters" in a sentence?

You can use "multitude of characters" to describe a large and often diverse group of characters in a story, game, or other context. For example: "The novel features a "multitude of characters", each with unique motivations."

What can I say instead of "multitude of characters"?

You can use alternatives like "variety of characters", "host of characters", or "abundance of characters" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "multitude of characters" or "many characters"?

The choice depends on the context. "Multitude of characters" implies a large and often diverse group, while "many characters" is a simpler, more general term. Use "multitude of characters" when you want to emphasize the scale or diversity of the group.

What is the difference between "multitude of characters" and "diverse cast of characters"?

"Multitude of characters" emphasizes the sheer number of characters, whereas "diverse cast of characters" highlights the variety and different backgrounds or traits of the characters.