Innumerable: meaning, definitions and examples

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innumerable

 

[ɪˈnjuːm(ə)rəb(ə)l ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

countless

Too many to be counted; numerous beyond measure.

Synonyms

countless, multitudinous, numerous, uncountable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
innumerable

Same as 'innumerable' given above.

  • The forest was home to innumerable species
countless

Used in everyday language to describe something that is so many it feels impossible to count.

  • She received countless messages of support
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.

  • The beach was covered in uncountable grains of sand
numerous

Used to describe many people or things and often used in both formal and informal settings.

  • There were numerous options to choose from
multitudinous

Often used in more formal or literary contexts to describe a large number or a large variety of something.

  • The multitudinous voices in the crowd created a deafening roar

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.
Context #2 | Adjective

incalculable

Too many to be calculated or reckoned.

Synonyms

immeasurable, incalculable, unfathomable, unquantifiable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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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.

  • There are innumerable stars in the sky
  • She has received innumerable compliments on her dress
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.

  • The damage caused by the storm is incalculable
  • The benefits of this new technology are incalculable
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.

  • The love a mother has for her child is immeasurable
  • His contribution to the project was of immeasurable value
unquantifiable

This word is appropriate when it is impossible to express something in numbers, generally used for neutral or technical contexts.

  • The social benefits of the program are unquantifiable
  • The exact cost of the pollution is unquantifiable
unfathomable

This word is ideal for things so deep or complex that they are beyond understanding, often used in a neutral or negative context.

  • The mysteries of the universe are unfathomable
  • Her grief was unfathomable after the loss of her son

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

Word Frequency Rank

Position #7,716 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.