What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
plethora
Example
The store had a plethora of options for the customers to choose from. [plethora: noun]
Example
The politician's speech was filled with a plethora of empty promises. [plethora: adjective]
excess
Example
The company had to dispose of excess inventory due to lack of demand. [excess: noun]
Example
Her excessive drinking led to health problems. [excessive: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Excess is more commonly used than plethora in everyday language, especially in a negative context. Plethora is less common but can be used in a positive or neutral sense.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between plethora and excess?
Both plethora and excess are formal words that are more likely to be used in written or academic contexts rather than in casual conversation.
