ENGLISH
REFERENCE

numerous

adj.
B2 Upper Intermediate Oxford US //ˈnumɝəs// UK //njˈuːməɹəs// nu·mer·ous General-service

adj. existing in large numbers. You use this word when there are many of something, especially when you want to sound a bit more formal than using 'many'.

adj. consisting of a great number; existing in large quantity. Often used in formal or academic contexts as a more precise alternative to 'many'.


SIMPLE

There are numerous reasons why I love this city.

CONTEXTUAL

The author received numerous awards for her latest novel about the history of jazz.

COMPLEX

Despite numerous attempts to resolve the conflict through diplomatic channels, the two nations remained at a stalemate regarding their shared maritime border.

Synonyms
Origin

From Middle English numerous from Latin numerōsus (“numerous, abundant; harmonious”), from numerus (“number”). Doublet of numerose. Analyzeable as numero- + -ous.

Usage

Typically functions as an attributive adjective placed before the noun it modifies.

© 2026 English Reference