One of the misunderstood and misused words by authors is myriad. You’ll see it used differently—and interchangeably—in many books.

It can be confusing because myriad can be used both as a noun and an adjective. 

As a noun, myriad usually means “great in number.” (Use the word, “of” in the sentence).

As an adjective, it means “many.” (Do not use the word “of” in the sentence).

Correct: She listed a myriad of reasons to divorce Melvin. (Meaning a great number).

Correct: There were myriad reasons to divorce Melvin. (Meaning many).

Confusing, huh? Since it is such a tricky word, why don’t writers simply avoid using it?

I think its because even though so many words/phrases can be substituted for myriad, none are quite as beautiful on paper and none sound quite as poetic when read aloud.

Myriad is simply one of the coolest words in a writer’s toolbox.