gazillion: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowInformal, Humorous, Exaggerative
Quick answer
What does “gazillion” mean?
An unspecified, extremely large number.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
An unspecified, extremely large number; a hyperbolic or humorous substitute for a very large cardinal number.
Used to express an immeasurably vast, often exaggerated, quantity. It implies a number so large it is beyond counting or practical consideration.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The word originated and is more common in American English, but is understood in British English. British speakers might be more likely to use "squillion" or simply "millions and millions" for similar effect.
Connotations
Equally humorous and informal in both varieties.
Frequency
More frequent in American English. Its use in British English is typically influenced by exposure to American media.
Grammar
How to Use “gazillion” in a Sentence
a + gazillion + (of) + plural noungazillions of + plural nounVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “gazillion” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- He made a gazillion-pound mistake.
- There are gazillion reasons not to go.
American English
- He made a gazillion-dollar mistake.
- I have a gazillion things to do.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Highly inappropriate for formal reports. May be used jokingly in casual conversation ("We have a gazillion emails to answer").
Academic
Not used, except perhaps in informal student speech.
Everyday
Primary context. Used for humorous exaggeration among friends and family.
Technical
Never used.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “gazillion”
- Treating it as a real, countable number (e.g., *"There were three gazillions of them"). Using it in formal writing.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is not a real, defined number. It is an informal, humorous term for an extremely large, indefinite quantity.
Absolutely not. It is far too informal and imprecise for any kind of academic or formal writing.
There is no semantic difference. They are all informal, hyperbolic numbers. Choice is based on personal or regional preference; 'gazillion' and 'zillion' are the most common.
In its informal register, yes. The pattern "gazillions of + plural noun" (e.g., "gazillions of ants") is commonly used, analogous to "millions of" or "billions of".
An unspecified, extremely large number.
Gazillion is usually informal, humorous, exaggerative in register.
Gazillion: in British English it is pronounced /ɡəˈzɪljən/, and in American English it is pronounced /ɡəˈzɪljən/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “I've told you a gazillion times”
- “Thanks a gazillion!”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a busy, noisy bazaar (sounds like 'gaza-') with a zillion (sounds like 'zillion') people in it. A 'bazaar-zillion' got shortened to 'gazillion'.
Conceptual Metaphor
NUMBER IS SIZE / QUANTITY IS PHYSICAL MASS. Treating an abstract, uncountable number as a tangible, massive object.
Practice
Quiz
In which context would 'gazillion' be MOST appropriate?