Lot Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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lot

[lษ’t ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

parking

A space or piece of land used for parking vehicles.

Synonyms

car park, parking area, parking space.

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Word Description / Examples
lot

This term is American English for a parking area, similar to 'parking lot'. It can be used interchangeably with 'parking lot'.

  • He parked the car in the lot across the street.
  • The supermarket has a large lot for customers.
parking area

A more generic term that can be used to describe any designated space where vehicles can be parked. It's often used when the area is informally structured or part of a larger complex.

  • Thereโ€™s a parking area behind the office building.
  • The park has a small parking area for visitors.
parking space

Refers to a specifically marked or designated spot within a larger parking area or parking lot where a single vehicle can be parked.

  • We found a parking space right in front of the restaurant.
  • All the parking spaces near the entrance were taken.
car park

Commonly used in British English to describe an area where cars can be parked, generally more formal and structured than just 'lot'.

  • I left the car in the multi-storey car park downtown.
  • Thereโ€™s a car park next to the office building.

Examples of usage

  • We found a lot of parking spaces available near the restaurant.
  • The parking lot was full of cars.
Context #2 | Noun

auction

An item or set of items for sale in an auction.

Synonyms

auction collection, auction item, auction set.

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Word Description / Examples
lot

A 'lot' is generally used to describe a group of items that are being sold together at an auction. This term is commonly used in both formal and informal auction settings and can refer to almost any type of item.

  • The silverware is being sold as a single lot.
  • Lot number 25 includes a vintage watch and a set of cufflinks.
auction item

'Auction item' denotes a specific single item that is being offered for sale at an auction. This term is neutral and can be used in any auction setting.

  • The auction item up next is a beautiful antique vase.
  • Each auction item will be displayed online for preview before the event.
auction set

An 'auction set' refers to a specific group of related items being sold together, often designed to be used or displayed as a cohesive group. This term is less commonly used and might be more specific to certain types of auctions such as collectibles or furniture.

  • The auction set of porcelain dolls attracted a lot of attention.
  • We acquired an auction set of vintage teapots at the event.
auction collection

An 'auction collection' typically refers to a curated group of items that are being offered for sale as part of a special theme or event at an auction. This term is often used in more formal auction settings.

  • The auction collection features artwork from renowned modern artists.
  • This year's auction collection includes rare books and manuscripts.

Examples of usage

  • The antique vase was sold for a lot of money at the auction.
  • Bidders were eager to bid on the rare lot of paintings.
Context #3 | Noun

much

A large amount or number.

Synonyms

a great deal, a large quantity, plenty.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
lot

Informal, general use when you want to say there is a large amount of something. Commonly used in everyday conversation.

  • I have a lot of work to do today.
  • She has a lot of friends.
a great deal

Formal or semi-formal situations, often in written texts or formal speeches.

  • He invested a great deal of time in this project.
  • A great deal of attention was given to the details.
a large quantity

Specific, often used in technical, scientific, or business contexts when precise measurements or amounts are being discussed.

  • The experiment requires a large quantity of chemicals.
  • They ordered a large quantity of supplies for the event.
plenty

Informal, positive connotation meaning more than enough; often used to reassure or emphasize abundance.

  • Don't worry, there's plenty of food for everyone.
  • We have plenty of time to finish the project.

Examples of usage

  • She has a lot of books in her library.
  • I have a lot of work to do today.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • The term 'lot' is featured in popular phrases like 'lotta food', often emphasizing abundance.
  • In film and television, characters sometimes talk about winning a lot, highlighting luck or opportunity.
  • The concept of a 'lot' is frequently used in reality TV shows to showcase transformations, like getting a lot of makeovers in one episode.

Mathematics

  • In statistics, a 'lot' can refer to a batch or set of items considered for testing or analysis.
  • The idea of a 'lot' also connects with sampling, where a larger group is subdivided into smaller lots for easier study.
  • In probability, determining the likelihood of an event can relate back to how many different 'lots' you can make from a sample.

Psychology

  • People often perceive larger 'lots' as more desirable; for example, receiving a lot of compliments boosts self-esteem.
  • The concept of having a lot of choices is linked to anxiety in decision-making, a phenomenon known as choice overload.
  • When individuals describe their experiences, they frequently use the term 'lot' to signify the intensity or quantity of feelings involved.

Real Estate

  • In real estate, 'lot' refers to a parcel of land, which can be residential or commercial.
  • Buying a lot for a home often involves zoning laws that dictate how the land can be used.
  • The size of a lot can greatly influence property value, with larger lots generally holding more appeal.

Origin of 'lot'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originated from the Old English term 'hlot', meaning a 'share' or 'portion'.
  • In Middle English, it evolved to 'lot', relating to the concept of a division or portion of something larger.
  • The phrase 'lot' has been used historically to refer to a fate determined by drawing lots, like in games of chance.

The word 'lot' has a long history that dates back to Old English. It originally referred to an object used for making decisions by chance, such as drawing lots. Over time, the meaning expanded to include various contexts like parking lots, auction lots, and quantities. The word has evolved to become a versatile term used in different contexts.


See also: allot, lotion.

Word Frequency Rank

At #854 in the frequency ranking, this word is highly important for effective communication. It's commonly used in daily situations and should be prioritized in your vocabulary building.