much
Adverbmore (entry), most
Often confused with many
Formsmore (entry), most
- 1A large amount of something you cannot count, or the amount shown, as in 'how much' or 'too much'.
We don't have much time before the train leaves.
We did not get much rain this summer.
UsageSay much water but many cups. In positive sentences, a lot of is more common.
Oppositelittle
Note
- 2By a lot, used to make a comparison stronger.
This bag is much heavier than the other one.
She feels much better after resting.
UsageSay much better, but very good.
Similarfar, considerably, significantly
Oppositeslightly, marginally
- 3
- 4By a large amount, or a lot.
She doesn't talk much at parties.
Thank you very much for your help.
UsageSay I don't eat much, but I like it a lot.
Similargreatly, considerably, significantly, far
- 5Used to show or compare how big a difference or degree is.
I missed you this much while you were away.
I didn't expect to enjoy it this much.
UsageUse as much as to compare: I like tea as much as coffee.
Note
- 6Nearly, or almost, as in 'much the same'.
Less common meanings
- 7Often, or many times.
Do you watch movies much?
We don't see each other much these days.
UsageUse it at the end of questions and "not" sentences: I don't go out much.
Similaroften, frequently, regularly
- 8Added after a word, in a teasing question, to mock someone for clearly being a certain way.
You've watched that show five times this week. Obsessed much?
He keeps checking his phone every minute. Nervous much?
Note
- 9
- 10Large or great in size.
Note
- 11Lasting for a long time.
Showing meanings only.
Practice
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Origin
From Old English micel, meaning "big" or "much." It came from older Germanic words with the same meaning.
Checked 1 Nov 2026 · 2 facts
- Much derives from Old English micel, meaning 'big' or 'much'. en.wiktionary.org
- Old English micel derives from older Germanic forms with the same meaning. en.wiktionary.org