B210K+

Dozen

UK /["/ˈdʌzn/"]/US /["/ˈdʌzn/"]/

Definition

a group of twelve of the same thing

In simple words: Twelve of something.

Examples

  • I bought a dozen eggs from the market.
  • The baker made a dozen pastries for the event.
  • She has read a dozen books this summer.
  • They won dozens of awards for their film.
  • We invited a dozen friends to the party.

Usage notes

Used in everyday language to refer to a group of twelve items, often food or objects. Avoid using in formal writing where specific numbers are preferred.

Grammar pattern

countable noun

Memory hint

Think of a 'dozen' eggs in a carton, neatly organized.

Collocations

  • baker's dozen
  • dozen eggs
  • dozen roses

Synonyms

  • twelve
  • 12
  • group of twelve

Antonyms

  • single
  • one
  • few

Common mistakes

  • Using 'dozen' with uncountable nouns.
  • Confusing 'dozen' with 'dozens' for multiple groups.
  • Incorrectly using a singular verb with 'dozen'.