multitude
die Vielzahl
Loading your saved state.
large number
A large number or a wide variety of people or things. It is almost always used in the construction 'eine Vielzahl von/an' (a large number/variety of).
Das neue Gesetz hat eine Vielzahl von Protesten ausgelöst.
The new law triggered a large number of protests.
| gender | feminine die |
|---|---|
| genitive | der Vielzahl |
| singular | plural | |
|---|---|---|
| nominative | die Vielzahl | – |
| accusative | die Vielzahl | – |
| dative | der Vielzahl | – |
| genitive | der Vielzahl | – |
The article changes with the case; it is shown in colour.
'Vielzahl' is almost always used in the fixed construction 'eine Vielzahl von' followed by a noun in the dative plural. The word 'Vielzahl' itself remains singular.
Es gibt eine Vielzahl von Gründen für diese Entscheidung.
There are a large number of reasons for this decision.
The expression 'eine Vielzahl von' belongs more to written language or to a more formal style. In normal conversation, you would often simply use the word 'viele' (many).
Eine Vielzahl von Bürgern hat an der Umfrage teilgenommen.
A large number of citizens took part in the survey.
The word is simply constructed and consists of 'viel' (much/many) and 'Zahl' (number). So it literally means a 'large number' of something.
Der Onlineshop bietet eine Vielzahl an Produkten an.
The online shop offers a wide variety of products.
amount / crowd
Menge and Vielzahl can both refer to a large number. Menge emphasizes the quantity neutrally, while Vielzahl often makes the large number seem striking or highlights its variety. If only the quantity matters, Menge is appropriate; if variety should also be suggested, Vielzahl is a better fit.
Eine Vielzahl von Vorschlägen ging bei der Stadt ein.
The city received a wide variety of suggestions.
Eine große Menge von Vorschlägen ging bei der Stadt ein.
The city received a large number of suggestions.
