Words / B2

NYOOM-uh-r-uh-s/ˈnjuːmərəs/

Numerous means very many, in a slightly formal register: numerous studies, numerous complaints. Many is everyday; countless is stronger and looser. Number is the related noun. In speech, lots of / many is enough. Do not use numerous for three items — keep it for a large number — and do not confuse it with numerical (to do with numbers).

Meaning

Very many (more formal than many).

Examples

• “The proposal received numerous objections from residents.”
• “The consultation drew numerous objections from the same postcode.”
• “Numerous trials have failed to copy the first result, which is why the claim is weak.”

Good to know

numerous + plural noun. Everyday: many. Stronger/looser: countless. Not for two or three. Mix-up: numerical. Formal tone.

Near in meaning

many

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