“Amount” vs. “Number”: What’s the Difference?

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The difference between “amount” and “number”

  • "Amount" is used for uncountable nouns, while "number" is used for countable nouns.
  • "Amount" refers to the total quantity; whereas "number" refers to the total count.
  • "Amount" is measured in terms of volume, weight, or time; whereas "number" is measured in finite numerical digits.
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What is the definition of “amount” and “number”?

Amount
  • "Amount" refers to the total quantity or sum of something.
  • It is usually used for uncountable nouns such as money, water, or time.
  • It is measured in terms of volume, weight, or time.
Number
  • "Number" refers to a quantity or the total count of something.
  • It is usually used for countable nouns such as people, books, or pens.
  • It is measured in numerical digits like 1, 2, 3, etc.

Which is the more popular variant on the Internet?

“Number” is the more popular variant on the web.
Amount
3,980,000,000 results on the web
Examples
  1. The amount of sugar in this recipe seems excessive.
  2. I couldn't believe the amount of traffic during rush hour.
  3. The bank account has a substantial amount of money.
More popular
Number
7,220,000,000 results on the web
Examples
  1. A large number of people gathered for the protest.
  2. The number of exceptions in the English language is ridiculous.
  3. The school limits the number of students per classroom.
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