esl #english #idioms #informal #noun

a lot {n.}, {informal}

A large number or amount; very many or very much; lots.

I learned a lot in Mr. Smith's class.

A lot of our friends are going to the beach this summer.

• Often used like an adverb.

Ella is a jolly girl; she laughs a lot.

Grandfather was very sick last week, but he's a lot better now.

You'll have to study a lot harder if you want to pass.

• Also used as an adjective with "more", "less", and "fewer".

There was a good crowd at the game today, but a lot more will come next week.

• Often used with "whole" for emphasis.

John has a whole lot of marbles.

Jerry is a whole lot taller than he was a year ago.

Compare: GOOD DEAL, GOOD MANY, A NUMBER.

Contrast: A FEW, A LITTLE. Categories: emphasis study {adv. phr.} {informal} {n.}