lots
12 synonyms for lots, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A large amount or number of things (informal).
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use lots
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
lots of fun
lots of people
thanks lots
Informal and conversational; "a great deal" or "many" reads more formal.
Frequently asked questions
What does “lots” mean?
The word “lots” means a large amount or number of things (informal). In plain terms, an informal, casual way of saying "a lot" or "very much.".
How do you pronounce “lots”?
“Lots” is pronounced lots (/lɑts/ in IPA).
How do you use “lots” in a sentence?
Here is “lots” used in a sentence: “We still have lots of time before the flight.”
What part of speech is “lots”?
Depending on how it is used, “lots” can be a noun and an adverb.
Is “lots” a common word?
“Lots” is a very common word in modern English.
How many meanings does “lots” have?
“Lots” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a large amount or number of things (informal).
What is the difference between 'lots' and 'a lot'?
In meaning, almost none — both express a large amount and are interchangeable in most sentences: 'lots of time' or 'a lot of time.' 'Lots' feels slightly more casual, emphatic, and often warmer in tone. Both are informal; in formal writing, 'much,' 'many,' or 'a great deal' are usually preferred instead.
Is 'lots' formal or informal?
Informal. It belongs to everyday, conversational English and is perfectly correct in speech, texts, and casual writing. In academic essays, reports, or business documents, editors usually replace it with 'many,' 'much,' 'numerous,' or 'a great deal of,' which carry a more formal tone. The meaning stays the same; only the register changes.
Can you use 'lots of' with uncountable nouns?
Yes. 'Lots of' works with both countable and uncountable nouns, which is part of its convenience — 'lots of books' and 'lots of water' are equally correct. The verb that follows agrees with the noun: 'lots of milk is left' but 'lots of apples are left.' That flexibility is why 'lots of' is so common.
