Innumerable: meaning, definitions and examples
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innumerable
[ɪˈnjuːm(ə)rəb(ə)l ]
Definitions
countless
Too many to be counted; numerous beyond measure.
Synonyms
countless, multitudinous, numerous, uncountable.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
innumerable |
Same as 'innumerable' given above.
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countless |
Used in everyday language to describe something that is so many it feels impossible to count.
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uncountable |
Used to describe something that can't be counted, usually because it is not countable by nature (e.g., sand, water) or because it is too numerous.
|
numerous |
Used to describe many people or things and often used in both formal and informal settings.
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multitudinous |
Often used in more formal or literary contexts to describe a large number or a large variety of something.
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Examples of usage
- There are innumerable stars in the sky.
- The beach was covered in innumerable seashells.
- She faced innumerable obstacles on her path to success.
incalculable
Too many to be calculated or reckoned.
Synonyms
immeasurable, incalculable, unfathomable, unquantifiable.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
innumerable |
This word is best when referring to something that is so numerous it can't be counted, typically used for positive or neutral contexts.
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incalculable |
This word works well when referring to something so great or numerous it cannot be calculated, can be used in both positive and negative contexts.
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immeasurable |
This word suits situations where something is so vast or extreme that it can't be measured, often used in a positive or neutral context.
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unquantifiable |
This word is appropriate when it is impossible to express something in numbers, generally used for neutral or technical contexts.
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unfathomable |
This word is ideal for things so deep or complex that they are beyond understanding, often used in a neutral or negative context.
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Examples of usage
- The innumerable grains of sand on the beach.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- This word comes from the Latin 'innumerabilis', where 'in-' means 'not' and 'numerabilis' means 'able to be counted'.
- The prefix 'in-' is common in words to indicate negation, as seen in 'invisible' (not seen) and 'incorrect' (not correct).
- It was first used in English in the late 14th century, emphasizing the concept of uncountability.
Mathematics
- In set theory, there are infinite sets that are considered 'innumerable', such as the set of real numbers.
- Different types of infinity exist; some infinities are larger than others, with 'countably infinite' numbers being those that can be listed or counted.
- The notion of 'innumerable' reflects real-world ideas, such as when comparing the number of rational numbers versus integers.
Literature
- Writers often use 'innumerable' to enhance imagery, such as in poetry where emotions or thoughts cannot be easily counted.
- In classic literature, countless cultural references often appear, illustrating themes of vastness and existential experience.
- Famous authors like Shakespeare have depicted feelings as 'innumerable', capturing the enormity of human emotions.
Philosophy
- The concept of the 'innumerable' raises discussions about existence and infinity, often engaging philosophers in abstract thought.
- Philosophers debate the nature of 'innumerable' when discussing the universe and its potential infinite phenomena.
- It challenges us to consider the limits of human understanding and perception when faced with the vastness of ideas or life.
Pop Culture
- 'Innumerable' often appears in songs or films to denote feelings that swell beyond counting, enhancing emotional impact.
- The idea of countless options or feelings in storytelling often uses 'innumerable' to express overwhelm or abundance.
- In video games, enemies or items may be described as 'innumerable' to emphasize challenges faced by characters.
Translations
Translations of the word "innumerable" in other languages:
🇵🇹 inumerável
🇮🇳 असंख्य
🇩🇪 unzählig
🇮🇩 tak terhitung
🇺🇦 незліченний
🇵🇱 niezliczony
🇯🇵 数え切れない (かぞえきれない)
🇫🇷 innombrable
🇪🇸 innumerable
🇹🇷 sayısız
🇰🇷 무수한 (musuhan)
🇸🇦 لا يُحصى
🇨🇿 nespočetný
🇸🇰 nespočetný
🇨🇳 无数的 (wúshù de)
🇸🇮 neštet
🇮🇸 óteljandi
🇰🇿 сансыз
🇬🇪 განუსაზღვრელი
🇦🇿 saysız-hesabsız
🇲🇽 innumerable