Many

Definition

Many is a determiner, pronoun, and adjective. It is used to refer to a large number of people or things. As a determiner and pronoun, it indicates a quantity, while as an adjective, it describes something abundant or numerous.

Parts of Speech

• Determiner
• Pronoun
• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈmɛni/
• Respelling: MEN-ee

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈmɛni/
• Respelling: MEN-ee

Etymology

The word "many" originates from Old English "manig," meaning "numerous" or "abundant." It is derived from Proto-Germanic "*managaz," which shares roots with the Old High German "manag" and Old Norse "margr," both meaning "many."

Derivatives

• Manifold (adjective/noun)
• Numerous (adjective)
• Multitude (noun)
• Multiplicity (noun)
• Magnify (verb, related)

Synonyms

• Numerous
• Several
• Countless

Antonyms

• Few
• Scarce
• None

Usage

The word "many" is versatile and appears frequently in both formal and informal contexts. For example, "There are many reasons to visit the museum" indicates a large quantity. As a pronoun, it can stand alone, e.g., "Many came to the event." As an adjective, it describes abundance, e.g., "She has many friends."

Related Terms

• Quantity: The amount or number of something.
• Numeral: A word or symbol representing a number.
• Plurality: The state of being numerous.

Detailed Definitions

Determiner

• A large number of people or things: Refers to an abundant quantity.
  • Example: "There are many books on the shelf."

Pronoun

• A large number of people or things: Used to represent a quantity without specifying what it refers to.
  • Example: "Many have tried, but few succeeded."

Adjective

• Consisting of or amounting to a large number: Describes something abundant or numerous.
  • Example: "Her kindness has brought her many admirers."