Translation guide
Expresses that something occurs or exists in large quantities, often with a sense of abundance or multitude. Japanese uses various adverbs, adverbial phrases, and verbs to convey this idea, depending on whether the focus is on quantity, frequency, or a swarm-like appearance.
Describing that something exists, is produced, or is available in large amounts.
The most common and versatile word for 'a lot' or 'many'. Can be used as an adverb or a noun. Suitable for both spoken and written Japanese.
There are a lot of people in the park.
I bought a lot of apples.
Means 'in large quantities' or 'massively'. Often used in more formal or technical contexts, such as production, data, or supplies.
This factory produces goods in great numbers.
Literally 'many in number'. Used adverbially to emphasize a large count. Slightly formal and often found in written language.
We received applications in great numbers.
Describing a large number of living things moving or gathering together, often with a sense of teeming or swarming.
Onomatopoeic adverb describing people or animals moving in a continuous line or crowd. Often implies a somewhat disorderly or conspicuous group.
Tourists got off the bus in great numbers.
Onomatopoeic adverb for a teeming mass of small creatures (insects, fish, etc.) or sometimes people. Has a slightly negative, creepy nuance.
The pond is full of tadpoles in great numbers.
Means 'in large numbers' or 'en masse', often used for organized groups of people moving together, such as protesters or migrants. Formal and somewhat literary.
Indicating that events or actions occur repeatedly or in rapid succession.
たくさん is the everyday word for 'a lot' and can be used in almost any context. 大量に is more specific to large-scale quantities and is common in business, science, or news reports. Using 大量に in casual conversation may sound overly technical.
It rained a lot yesterday. (natural)
It rained in great quantities yesterday. (unnatural unless referring to a disaster)
English 'in great numbers' is often used as a set phrase. In Japanese, the most natural expression depends heavily on context. Direct translations like '大きな数で' are not idiomatic. Instead, choose an appropriate adverb or phrase from the options above.
The demonstrators headed to the square in great numbers.
Participants gathered at the venue in great numbers.