Which is gramatically correct "a lot" or "alot". I was taught it was 2 words as in "a lot of apples.".

Question

I see the word "alot" frequently these days. I think the single word is incorrect.

Answer 1

A lot

Answer 2

This is an interesting question, because this is probably a phrase where English is changing. Language change happens all the time, after all.

Although the phrase certainly is derived from two words, there seems to be quite a bit of evidence now that, in our mental knowledge of language, it's one phrase. So it seems natural that people would want to spell it as one word.

The writing system is behind the spoken language in the most innovative changes, so many people still say that you should write "a lot".

Answer 3

A lot IS two words, all day long. Those that use the incorrect term alot, spell it like they say it-as one word. They are still incorrect though.

Answer 4

Languages change over time. Currently, the correct form is 2 words but I bet that within 30 years both will be acceptable.

Answer 5

Yes. One word is incorrect, but the majority of people do it now, so expect to be criticized for writing it correctly.

Answer 6

A lot of people don't realize that alot is incorrect.

Answer 7

Yes, "alot" is incorrect. It is two words "a lot."

Answer 8

2 words is correct... a lot

Answer 9

it is a known fact that the grammatically correct way of writing the phrase is "a lot". as in: letter a, SPACE, letter l, letter o, letter t. it is not ONE WORD. i hate when ppl write it as one word. it makes me wanna slap someone.

Answer 10

the right way to spell it is a lot, two words