dozens
- 01 B1 Intermediate
a large but unspecified number of people or things.
an indefinite but large quantity; used to emphasize the high volume of something.
Simple“Dozens of people waited in line for the new shop to open.”
In context“Dozens of protesters gathered outside the embassy, demanding a formal response from the ambassador regarding the recent policy changes.”
UsageAlways followed by 'of' when used as a quantifier before a noun.
PitfallThere were dozens people at the park. There were dozens of people at the park.When using 'dozens' to mean 'many', you must include the word 'of' before the noun.
Synonyms - 02 B1 Intermediate
more than one group of twelve items.
the plural form of the cardinal number twelve.
Simple“The baker sold dozens of eggs every single morning.”
In context“The shipment contained several dozens of high-precision components, each individually wrapped to prevent damage during transit.”
- 03 C2 Proficiency
a game where people trade clever insults to see who is funnier.
a ritualised game of verbal sparring, common in some American communities, where participants exchange witty insults.
Simple“The two friends were just playing the dozens and didn't mean any harm.”
In context“The documentary explores the cultural roots of playing the dozens and its influence on modern improvisational comedy and rap battles.”
UsageUsually used with the definite article as 'the dozens' and the verb 'play'.