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Anonymous Posted 16 years ago
Grammar

A lot vs. lots

A lot of people say it's impossible.
Lots of people say it's impossible.

What's the difference between a lot and lots in the above examples?
Am I correct to use plural verb 'say' in both sentences?
  

Top answer

I see no real difference. Say is correct since people is plural. CB

— Cool Breeze

  • I see no real difference.
  • Say is correct since people is plural.
  • CB
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8 Answers
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I see no real difference. Say is correct since people is plural.

CB
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Thanks CB for accomodating my question and your helpful response.
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To me, "lots" sounds somewhat more casual.
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khoffTo me, "lots" sounds somewhat more casual.

They both are quite casual to my ear. I would use many/much over either one of them in formal writing.
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Thank you, khoff, for your input.

I'm sorry, but when you say 'casual', do you mean it is used everyday/frequently or not frequently?
I looked up the word in the dictionary, but I couldn't determine the relevant meaning.
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Casual has more to do with style than with frequency. It is less than formal.
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Okay, I see as in casual wear. Thanks for your clarification.
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Technically, you only use "lots of" followed by a noun; the verb should be plural.

"a lot" should actually just be used as an adverb: I like it a lot. I practice a lot.

Of course, in casual speech Americans misuse this a lot!
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