Number vs. Amount – How To Distinguish These Two

In the English language, many commonly confused words can easily get mixed up. Such is also the case with “number” and “amount” when referring to a group of objects, people, or literally anything. It is essential in academic writing to know the difference between these two to avoid unnecessary mistakes. The following article will dive into the definitions of the two words and explore their meaning and applications.

Definition of “number” vs. “amount”

Both “number” and “amount” refer to a group of something where the exact size is not given. “Number” is used for countable nouns and objects you can easily quantify. “Amount,” on the other hand, goes with uncountable nouns, such as big masses or liquids. Both words are nouns and are used in the same way in a sentence.

Both words can also be used as verbs, where “to amount” means “to come to” or “to add up to.” The two words can also be used as synonyms, since they mean the same thing and only change according to the noun they refer to. Thus, “to number” also means “to come to” or “to add up to.”

Since they are practically equivalent, “number” and “amount” can easily be confused. Thus, it is all the more important to remember when to use which.

• “Number” as a noun is used with countable nouns.
• “Amount” goes with uncountable nouns.

Using the word “number”

The word “number” can be used as a noun or a verb. How it is applied in a sentence will be explained below.

“Number” as a noun

As a noun, “number” always refers to countable nouns such as people, books, or bottles. In the most basic meaning, “number” simply refers to a digit or a numeral, always in the company of said numeral.

“Number” as a verb

As a verb, “number” means “to count” or you give a number to something, as well as “to amount to.”

Tip for using “number” correctly

Synonyms for “number” avoid repetition and redundancy and improve your language overall. Use these to elevate your writing and make it more appealing to your readers.

Using the word “amount”

“Amount” is used as an equivalent of “number,” just with uncountable nouns instead. It can also function as a verb, just the same as “to number,” too.

“Amount” as a noun

As a noun, “amount” always refers to uncountable nouns such as liquids, hair, or wood. Furthermore, “amount” is also used for abstract nouns such as feelings.

“Amount” as a verb

“Amount” as a verb is used the same way as “number,” meaning “add up to,” or “come to.” In some cases, it can also signify equality.

Tips for using “amount”

Including synonyms for “amount” will elevate your writing and prevent repetition. Here are some alternative words to use with example sentences.

Exceptions

While the general rule for using “number” and “amount” is straightforward, there are some exceptions that make sense once explained. For instance, with uncountable items like hair or rice, “amount” is typically used since they cannot be easily counted individually. However, if referring to a small quantity, like a few grains of rice or individual hairs, “number” is used instead.

Practice sheet

To improve your ability to differentiate between “number” and “amount,” fill in the blanks in the given sentences. The correct answers can be found on the second tab.