Åtskilliga

Åtskilliga is a Swedish adjective meaning “numerous,” “several,” or “a number of.” It is used to quantify nouns and can precede plural nouns as in åtskilliga människor (numerous people) or åtskilliga gånger (many times). The term is more formal or literary in style, and in everyday speech it is often replaced by många, flera, eller ett antal.

Etymology and usage history: åtskilliga originates from older forms related to the notion of distinction or separation, and it has developed into a general quantifier meaning “many.” In modern Swedish it retains a somewhat elevated or written-register nuance. It is commonly found in books, journalism, and formal prose rather than casual conversation.

Grammar and variants: åtskilliga is used attributively before plural nouns, for example åtskilliga böcker, åtskilliga exempel, åtskilliga skäl. It can also appear in adverbial phrases such as åtskilliga gånger, meaning “on many occasions.” The word functions as an adjective and otherwise follows standard Swedish agreement rules for plural definite and indefinite contexts.

Typical usage: The term signals a notable but indefinite amount, and often contrasts with more precise counts. It may imply a sense of diversity or variety among the items referred to. In modern usage, speakers may choose åtskilliga when they wish to convey formality, breadth, or a literary tone.

See also: many, several, ett antal, mångfald.