myriad - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
myriad Word Meanings
- a countless or extremely great number
- innumerable
- various or diverse
myriad Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
myriad Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
//ˈmɪr.i.əd//
US
//ˈmɪr.i.əd//
myriad Word Etymology
myriad = myri- (ten thousand) + -ad (indicating a collection or quantity); Origin: Greek → Latin → English. Imagine a vast starry sky with countless twinkling stars, representing the endless possibilities and diversity of life.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Myriad is a versatile English word that can be a noun or an adjective. As a noun, it means a countless or extremely great number; as an adjective, it describes many or varied things. In modern usage, people frequently say a 'myriad of' something, as in 'a myriad of choices,' though some writers also use 'myriad' attributively without 'of,' as in 'a myriad crowd.' The word carries a hint of abundance and diversity, often emphasized in lists, surveys, or creative writing. It is somewhat formal, so you may see it in journalism or literature more than in everyday speech. Remember that 'ten thousand' is the original sense, but now it is a general exaggeration for large quantities.
Usage Reminders
- Use as noun or adjective; prefer 'a myriad of' with plural nouns; sometimes omit 'of' in informal contexts; avoid treating it as a exact number; keep it formal or literary in tone; do not overuse in casual speech.
Common Misconceptions
- It always refers to exactly ten thousand.
- It cannot modify a noun directly without 'of'.
- It is casual language only.
- It should be followed by a number.
- It is the same as countless.
Thinking Differences
For English learners, myriad is a flexible, sometimes formal word that can mean very many or very diverse; it often appears with 'of' after a determiner, and sometimes can be used before a plural noun without 'of' in modern usage. Learners often overformality or misplace it with countable numbers.
Learning Tips
- Remember: noun and adjective forms exist.
- Use with 'of' for most common collocations.
- Consider 'a myriad of' vs 'myriad' as attributive without 'of' in formal registers.
- Do not confuse with specific numbers; it means a large quantity in general.
- Reserve for descriptive, not everyday casual speech.
- Practice with varied nouns to convey diversity.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'myriad'?
A.A small amount
B.A large number
C.A specific quantity
D.An exact figure
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'myriad' used correctly?
A.She had a myriad of pencils in her bag.
B.He had no myriad to complete the task.
C.There were myriad people at the event.
D.The teacher asked for a myriad answer.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'myriad'?
A.Limited
B.Numerous
C.Scarce
D.Exact
Step 4: Opposite Words
In what context would 'myriad' be used?
A.Expressing a large quantity
B.Referring to a unique item
C.Showing scarcity
D.Describing a specific number
Step 5: Mastery
Give an example of a situation where 'myriad' could be used.
A.Answer: Only a myriad of people attended the conference.
B.Answer: The task requires a myriad of specialized skills.
C.Answer: There are myriad opportunities for growth in this company.
D.Answer: The book provided a myriad of complex theories.
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