A1 1K

Much

UK /["/mʌtʃ/"]/ US /["/mʌtʃ/"]/ Pronunciation

Definition

used with uncountable nouns, especially in negative sentences to mean ‘a large amount of something’, or after ‘how’ to ask about the amount of something. It is also used with ‘as’, ‘so’ and ‘too’.

Listen to definition

In simple words: A large amount or a lot.

Examples

• There is much to learn in this course.
• He doesn't eat much at breakfast.
• She has much family support during tough times.
• There is much noise in the city.
• I don't have much time to finish my homework.
• Much of the work was done by volunteers.
• I have much love for my friends.

Usage notes

Use 'much' in negative sentences and questions. It's less common in positive sentences where 'a lot of' is preferred. Avoid using with countable nouns.

Grammar pattern

much + uncountable noun

Memory hint

Think of 'much' as 'munch' — imagine munching on a lot of food.

Collocations

• much effort
• much time
• much love
• much noise
• much information

Synonyms

• a lot
• plenty
• many
• numerous
• countless

Antonyms

• little
• few

Common mistakes

• Using 'much' with countable nouns (e.g., saying 'much apples').
• Saying 'I have much friends' instead of 'I have many friends'.