untold numbers

USAGE SUMMARY

"untold numbers" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is often used to refer to an immense, large or great number that cannot be counted or is unknown. Example: "The number of people affected by the COVID-19 pandemic is, unfortunately, untold numbers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In untold numbers, searchers are unearthing stories on their own.

The New Yorker

"The unspeakable required untold numbers of helpers," the magazine said.

The New Yorker

Untold numbers of individuals may fall within this description.

Harvard University

5 Untold numbers of individuals may fall within this description.

Harvard University

Millions of copies were sold; untold numbers were pirated.

The New York Times

Mosques, universities and untold numbers of homes have been demolished.

The Guardian - Opinion

Untold numbers of these people could lose coverage.

The Washington Post

That could drive untold numbers back into the shadows.

The Washington Post

But the desert still contains untold numbers of the missing.

The New York Times - Arts

There are untold numbers of stories like that.

The New York Times

True, but this could apply to many Russian actions in Chechnya, where Russia has killed untold numbers of civilians and where untold numbers of young men have disappeared.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "untold numbers" to emphasize the uncertainty and magnitude of a quantity, rather than providing a specific (even if estimated) figure.

Common error

While "untold numbers" is generally acceptable, avoid overusing it in formal or academic writing where precise data or estimations are expected. In those cases, strive for specific figures or ranges.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "untold numbers" functions as a quantifier, specifically an adjective modifying the noun "numbers". It indicates an indefinite, large quantity that is impossible or impractical to count. Ludwig examples confirm its use to describe unquantifiable amounts across various domains.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Academia

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "untold numbers" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe a quantity that is too large or difficult to count precisely. As Ludwig AI points out, it functions as a quantifier, typically found in news and media contexts. While it may not be suitable for highly formal or scientific writing that demands precise data, it effectively conveys the magnitude and uncertainty of a large, unquantifiable amount. Alternatives such as "innumerable instances" or "a substantial number" can be used depending on the specific context and desired level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

countless instances

Highlights the lack of a precise count.

limitless number

Indicates a number without any defined boundaries or restrictions.

innumerable instances

Emphasizes the inability to count the specific occurrences.

uncountable sum

Underscores the impracticality of counting to determine the total.

immeasurable quantity

Focuses on the inability to determine the exact amount or volume.

unfathomable amount

Stresses the difficulty in comprehending the size of the amount.

a plethora of cases

Suggests an abundance or excess of occurrences.

myriad occurrences

Emphasizes the numerous and diverse nature of the occurrences.

vast quantities

Implies a large and expansive amount.

boundless array

Highlights the expansive and unrestricted range of the collection.

FAQs

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

You can use "untold numbers" to describe a quantity that is too large or difficult to count, such as, "Untold numbers of people were affected by the disaster".

What's a more formal alternative to "untold numbers"?

In more formal contexts, consider using phrases like "a substantial number", "a significant amount", or "an incalculable number" depending on the specific meaning you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "untold numbers" in academic writing?

While generally acceptable, using "untold numbers" in academic writing depends on the context. If precise data is unavailable, it can be used to acknowledge the lack of a specific figure. However, strive for estimations or ranges whenever possible for greater accuracy.

How does "untold numbers" differ from "large numbers"?

"Untold numbers" implies not only a large quantity but also an inability or lack of effort to count the quantity. "Large numbers" simply indicates a big amount without suggesting it is impossible to count.