Words / C2

mult-i-FAIRR-ee-uh-s/ˌmʌltɪˈfeəriəs/

Multifarious means of many different kinds; having great variety (formal): multifarious duties, a multifarious organisation. Many (already in the dictionary) is everyday a large number; various (already in the dictionary) is several and of different kinds. Manifold (already in the dictionary) is many and of different kinds — the close twin — and a myriad (already in the dictionary) is a very large number. One named holder still has to sit under the variety.

Meaning

Of many different kinds; having great variety (formal).

Examples

• “Multifarious workstreams still need one named key-holder.”
• “Many is a large number (already in A1). Various is several different kinds (already in A2). Manifold is many and various (already in C1). A myriad is a great many (already in B2). Variety on the right object can still be exact. Variety instead of a named post is a hole. Write the key-holder; then the organogram may branch.”

Good to know

Many and various (formal). Everyday: many / various (already in this dictionary). Close: manifold (already in C1); myriad (already in B2). Variety ≠ a key.

Near in meaning

various, manifold, diverse, myriad

New