A1pronoun1K

Lot

UK /["/lɒt/"]/US /["/lɑːt/"]/

Definition

a large number or amount

In simple words: A large amount or number of something.

Examples

  • ‘How many do you need?’ ‘A lot.’
  • Have some more cake. There's lots left.
  • He has invited nearly a hundred people but a lot aren't able to come.
  • I have a lot to do today.
  • She still has **an awful lot** *(= a very large amount)* to learn.

Usage notes

Use 'lot' in casual conversations to express quantity or degree. It's less formal than terms like 'a great deal' or 'many'. Avoid in academic writing.

Grammar pattern

quantifier + noun

Memory hint

Imagine a large parking lot filled with cars to remember 'lot'.

Collocations

  • a lot of
  • lot to do
  • lot going on

Synonyms

  • many
  • a lot
  • plenty
  • numerous
  • scores

Antonyms

  • little
  • few

Common mistakes

  • Using 'lot' when referring to a single item or a smaller quantity.
  • Confusing 'lot' with 'lot's' meaning possession.
  • Mispronouncing 'lot' as 'lot's' or 'lots' when using it as a quantifier.