so many
Idioms-
Such a large number, as in There were so many guests that we didn't have enough chairs . [First half of 1200s]
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An unspecified number, as in There allegedly are so many shrimp per pound, but of course the exact number depends on their size and weight . [First half of 1500s]
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Forming a group, as in The reporters turned on the speaker like so many tigers let loose . [c. 1600]
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
It was a snapshot of the adjustment period so many new signings go through before they find their feet at Newcastle.
From BBC • May 27, 2026
Waldorf’s family and friends were shocked she was running into so many obstacles.
From Salon • May 27, 2026
They acquire them either from another zoo or a rescue, and there are only so many rescued capybaras.
From Slate • May 27, 2026
I started when I was 26 and I felt like I got to be a fly on the wall in so many incredible scenes with all-star actors.
From Los Angeles Times • May 26, 2026
I swept the floor in our house so many times it was a wonder I didn’t wear out the floorboards.
From "Summer of the Monkeys" by Wilson Rawls
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Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.