What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
multiple
Example
The store offers discounts for multiple purchases. [multiple: adjective]
Example
The project has multiple stages that need to be completed. [multiple: adjective]
Example
To find the area of a rectangle, multiply its length by its width. [multiple: verb]
many
Example
There are many books on the shelf. [many: determiner]
Example
Many people attended the concert last night. [many: pronoun]
Example
We have too many apples and not enough space in the fridge. [many: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Many is more commonly used than multiple in everyday language, as it is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts. Multiple is less common and is typically used in technical or scientific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between multiple and many?
Multiple is more formal than many, which is a more casual and conversational word that can be used in both formal and informal contexts.