Shake a stick at Meaning in English
expression
Definition
An informal way to say there are a lot of something—more than you can easily count or imagine.
Usage & Nuances
'More than you can shake a stick at' appears in humorous, casual, or folksy conversation. Used only for large amounts. Outdated for some, but still found in the US and UK. Common structure: 'more X than you can shake a stick at.' Never for negative quantities.
Example Sentences
There are more books here than you can shake a stick at.
basic
The farm has more animals than you can shake a stick at.
basic
We have more problems than you can shake a stick at right now.
basic
There were more snacks at the party than anyone could shake a stick at.
natural
That store has more shoes than you can shake a stick at—I got totally lost!
natural
I've gotten more emails today than I can shake a stick at.
natural