Reading Theme:
Quantity: Definition, Usage & Key Distinctions (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：measurable amount (quantity)
quantity
/ˈkwɒn.tɪ.ti/
n.
An amount or number of something that can be measured or counted.
measurable amount
➕
/ˈmeʒ.ər.ə.bəl əˈmaʊnt/
n.
Refers to a specific, countable or measurable amount of something.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Latin 'quantitas', meaning 'how much', related to 'quantus'.
💡 Mnemonic
Link 'quantity' to 'how much' – it's all about the amount or number.
📖 Example
When buying groceries online, you need to select the exact quantity of each item, like two cartons of milk or five apples.
When purchasing groceries online, you must choose the precise quantity for each item, such as two cartons of milk or five apples.
🔗 Collocations
in quantity – in large amounts or numbers
quantity of – a specific amount of something
exact quantity – a precisely measured amount
🔄 Synonyms
🚫 Antonyms
quality (n.) – the standard of something as measured against others, not the amount
🌱 Derivatives
quantitative (adj.) – relating to the measurement of quantity
📖 Cultural Story
The word 'quantity' originates from Latin 'quantitas', derived from 'quantus' (how much). It entered English via Old French in the 14th century, commonly used in trade and science to express measurable amounts.
Meaning 2：large amount (quantity)
quantity
/ˈkwɒn.tɪ.ti/
n.
A large amount or number of something, often used in business contexts.
large amount
➕
/lɑːrdʒ əˈmaʊnt/
n.
Indicates a substantial or bulk amount, often in commercial or industrial contexts.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
The factory can produce goods in quantity, which helps to lower the cost per unit.
The factory is capable of manufacturing goods in large quantities, reducing the cost per unit.
🔗 Collocations
in quantity – in bulk or large numbers
large quantity – a significant amount
quantity production – mass production on a large scale
🔄 Synonyms
🚫 Antonyms
scarcity (n.) – the state of being in short supply or insufficient amount
🌱 Derivatives
quantify (v.) – to measure or express the quantity of something
Wordbook
Your data is saved in this browser