Linked by Thom Holwerda on Thu 29th Oct 2009 17:51 UTC
We all know that Microsoft doesn't actually make computers. It makes the software, and then lets an almost infinite amount of manufacturers build computers that can run its software. These manufacturers often make a mess of things, delivering computers filled to the brim with crapware. What would happen if Microsoft made computers? Well, for one, they would be void of crapware. Two, they would help users install the software they want before leaving the store - including software from competitors.
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Member since:2005-07-24
For future reference, the correct word here is number. Amount is only if what you're describing is better described as a whole, like an amount of sand,
And the number of manufacturers who provide Windows is not comparable to that of the grains of sand on the beach? Isn't that the real problem?
I can't help but agree with Thom on this one. "amount" is the proper term.
Edited 2009-10-29 20:28 UTC
Member since:2005-06-29
Member since:2005-11-18
"For future reference, the correct word here is number. Amount is only if what you're describing is better described as a whole, like an amount of sand, rather than a number of apples.
You didn't catch the "infinite"...? "
I think he meant to say that 'amount' is for mass mouns, while 'number' is for count nouns.
Mass nouns are mostly for things that are physically impossible or nearly impossible to count, such as water or grains.
Member since:2005-09-21
"For future reference, the correct word here is number. Amount is only if what you're describing is better described as a whole, like an amount of sand, rather than a number of apples.
You didn't catch the "infinite"...? "
Doesn't matter. Even an infinite number of items is still a number, and not an amount.
Member since:2007-01-18
You generally use the term number when the items in question are countable - denumerable - and amount when it's not countable/denumerable. So, you'd talk about a certain number of cars or computers but a certain amount of flour or water. In this case, manufacturers are countable - be they countably infinite or just countable - so the correct word would be number, not amount. It's the same issue which makes it so that people frequently use the word less when they should be using the word fewer - e.g. fewer computers, not less.
Member since:
2005-09-21
"It makes the software, and then lets an almost infinite amount of manufacturers build computers that can run its software."
For future reference, the correct word here is number. Amount is only if what you're describing is better described as a whole, like an amount of sand, rather than a number of apples.
http://www.writing.com/main/books/entry_id/318060