English Reference
pronoun · adverb

plenty

pron. · adv.
US /ˈpɫɛni/ UK /plˈɛnti/ plen·ty UK spelling plenties

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate

    pron.enough or more than enough of something so that you do not need any more.

    pron.a sufficient or abundant number or amount; functions as a pronoun representing a previously mentioned or understood noun.

    Simple

    You don't need to buy more milk; we have plenty in the fridge.

    In context

    While some critics argued the evidence was thin, the prosecution insisted they had plenty to secure a conviction.

    Usage

    Often stands alone when the noun it refers to is already known.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate InformalAmerican English

    adv.used to mean 'very' or 'enough' to describe a quality.

    adv.used as an intensifier meaning 'very' or 'sufficiently'. Often precedes adjectives or other adverbs.

    Simple

    That soup is plenty hot, so be careful not to burn your tongue.

    In context

    The manager made it plenty clear that any further tardiness would result in immediate disciplinary action.

    Usage

    Placed before an adjective to intensify the meaning.

    Teacher's tip

    This adverbial use is very common in North American English but may sound overly casual or non-standard in formal British contexts.

Usage plenty of time · plenty of reasons

This entry
Level B1 · Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated