What is difference between adjective of quantity and adjective of number
by Yogi P - October 27, 2023
Difference between adjective of quantity and adjective of number
Have you ever confused the words adjective of quantity and adjective of number in English? Many mistake them for being one and the same, but there are subtle differences between them that you should be aware of. In this article, we’ll explore the meanings and usages of both words, providing examples to illustrate their proper use in sentences.
Adjective of quantity
Adjective of quantity is used to describe the quantity of something. It is used to provide a non-specific amount of something, such as a lot, a bit, or many of something. For example, if I say “I ate a lot of cake” it means that I ate a large or unspecified amount of cake.
Adjective of number
Adjective of number refers to the number of participants, items, or nouns in a sentence. It describes the exact number of people, things, or nouns present and provides a specific amount of something. For example, if I say “I ate five pieces of cake” it means that I had a specific amount (5) of pieces to choose from.
| Word | Adjective of Quantity | Adjective of Number |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | Used to describe the quantity of something | Refers to the specific number of participants, items, or nouns |
| Usage | Non-specific amount (e.g. a lot, a bit, or many) | Specific amount (e.g. five, twelve, etc.) |
| Example | She ate a lot of candy. | She ate five pieces of candy. |
Adjective of quantity and adjective of number both provide information on the subject at hand; however, the difference lies in their specificity. Adjective of quantity is used to describe the quantity of something, providing a general idea if it is a lot or a few. Adjective of number, on the other hand, is used to describe the exact number of participants, items, or nouns in a sentence.
To observe the difference between an adjective of quantity and an adjective of number in action, consider the following real-life examples:
- He bought a lot of apples. (Adjective of Quantity)
- He bought five apples. (Adjective of Number)
- She enjoyed a few chocolates. (Adjective of Quantity)
- She enjoyed eight chocolates. (Adjective of Number)
Adjective of quantity vs Adjective of number
| Aspect | Adjective of Quantity | Adjective of Number |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Adjectives of quantity describe the approximate amount or degree of a noun. | Adjectives of number specify the exact quantity or indicate how many of a noun. |
| Examples | – “Some,” “many,” “few,” “several,” “a lot of,” “little,” “much,” “plenty of,” “enough.” | – “One,” “two,” “three,” “seventeen,” “hundreds,” “several,” “both,” “numerous,” “all,” “few.” |
| Usage | – Adjectives of quantity are used to give an idea of the quantity, but not an exact number. – They provide a sense of approximation. | – Adjectives of number are used to express precise counts or numbers. – They specify the exact quantity or the number of items. |
| Example Sentences | – I have some books to read. (quantity) – There are many people at the event. (quantity) – We have plenty of time to finish the project. (quantity) | – There are three apples on the table. (number) – Both of them are coming to the party. (number) – He has twenty assignments to complete. (number) |
| Modification of Nouns | Adjectives of quantity typically modify uncountable nouns and plural nouns. | Adjectives of number specifically modify countable nouns and specify the quantity of those nouns. |
| Flexibility in Use | Adjectives of quantity are more flexible and can describe a wide range of quantities without specifying an exact number. | Adjectives of number are less flexible and provide a precise numerical value for a noun. |
Practice to know about Adjective of Quantity and Adjective of number
To practice identifying these words in context, you could read through a passage and highlight the words that demonstrate the use of an adjective of quantity and an adjective of number. Additionally, you can create your own sentences that contain both types of adjectives. Doing so will help you understand when each adjective should be used accurately.
Conclusion
To conclude, understanding the distinction between an adjective of quantity and an adjective of number is essential to using them correctly in sentences. While both adjectives provide information on the amount of something, the adjective of quantity provides a general idea, while the adjective of number provides an exact figure.
