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
She was overwhelmed by the plethora of information available on the internet. [plethora: adjective]
surplus
Example
The company had a surplus of products after the holiday season. [surplus: noun]
Example
The surplus food was donated to the local shelter. [surplus: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Surplus is more commonly used than plethora in formal contexts, especially in economics and business. However, plethora is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between plethora and surplus?
Surplus is more formal than plethora, which is more commonly used in everyday language.
