Definitions
- Describing a large number of people, things, or events. - Referring to a significant quantity or amount of something. - Talking about a multitude of options, possibilities, or outcomes.
- Referring to a small number of people, things, or events. - Describing a few but significant quantity or amount of something. - Talking about a limited number of options, possibilities, or outcomes.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words refer to a quantity or amount of something.
- 2Both can be used to describe people, things, or events.
- 3Both are adjectives that modify nouns.
- 4Both can be used to indicate a range of numbers.
What is the difference?
- 1Magnitude: Numerous implies a larger quantity or number than several.
- 2Scope: Numerous can be used to describe a wide range of options, while several refers to a more limited number of choices.
- 3Emphasis: Numerous emphasizes the abundance or excess of something, while several highlights the significance or importance of a few items.
- 4Formality: Numerous is more formal than several, which is more commonly used in everyday language.
- 5Connotation: Numerous can have a negative connotation, suggesting an overwhelming or excessive amount, while several is neutral and does not carry any negative connotations.
Remember this!
Numerous and several are both adjectives used to describe a quantity or amount of something. However, numerous implies a larger quantity or number than several. Numerous can also be used to describe a wide range of options, while several refers to a more limited number of choices. Additionally, numerous is more formal and can have a negative connotation, while several is neutral and commonly used in everyday language.
