myriad
Noun
Medium difficulty
What does “myriad” mean?
noun.a countless or extremely great number.
SAT Usage
this term is often found in passages discussing nature, science, or philosophical concepts, emphasizing the vastness and diversity of a subject. It implies not just a large quantity, but an overwhelming or unquantifiable abundance, distinguishing it from similar terms like "countless," which lacks the nuance of variety and complexity.
Common Confusions
Myriad implies an overwhelming variety or complexity in a large number, while countless usually suggests a simple, unquantifiable quantity without emphasizing diversity.
Do not choose myriad if the context emphasizes a singular or limited quantity rather than a countless or extremely great number.
Example Sentences
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Earth hosts a myriad of animals.
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Earth hosts myriad animals.