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awful lot
/ˈɔːfəl lɒt/
a very large amount
She has an awful lot of experience in this field.
She has a very large amount of experience in this field.
informal
a very large amount or quantity of something
We have an awful lot of work to do before the deadline.
We have a very large amount of work to do before the deadline.
He spent an awful lot of money on that car.
He spent a very large amount of money on that car.
This phrase is commonly used in informal contexts to emphasize the quantity or extent of something.
Collocations
an awful lot ofa very large amount of
Antonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Informal Usage
Use 'awful lot' in casual conversations or informal writing to emphasize large quantities.
Gold Rule
Avoid Formal Contexts
Do not use 'awful lot' in formal writing or professional settings; opt for 'a large amount' or 'a great deal' instead.
Word Origin
The phrase 'awful lot' combines 'awful' (originally meaning 'awe-inspiring' but later softened to 'very great') with 'lot' (meaning a large quantity). The phrase emerged in the 19th century as a colloquial way to emphasize large amounts.
Usage Notes
This phrase is informal and often used in spoken English to emphasize the size or quantity of something. It is not typically used in formal writing.
Word Breakdown
awful
very great
adjectivelot
a large quantity
nounEnglish Dictionary