Definition of Amount
Quick Meaning of Amount
How much of something you have; the total quantity.
Detailed Definition of Amount
A quantity of something, especially something uncountable or measurable.
How to Pronounce Amount
Stress pattern: oO (2-syllable word).
Tip: Two syllables with stress on the second: a-MOUNT. The 'ou' sounds like the 'ow' in 'cow'.
Watch out: First syllable stressed as 'AM-ownt'; the stress belongs on the second syllable.
Origin and Etymology of Amount
From Old French 'amunter', combining 'a' + 'monter' (to mount or accumulate).
How to Use Amount in a Sentence
Each example shows “amount” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“I need a small amount of sugar for the recipe.”
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“The amount of traffic on the highway increased significantly during rush hour.”
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“The sheer amount of data processed annually by tech companies rivals small nations' computational capacity.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Amount
Common Synonyms for Amount
Smart Synonyms for Amount — When to Use Each
- quantity
- general term for any measurable amount or portion
- sum
- for total amounts, especially money or numbers
- volume
- specifically for physical space or bulk measurement
Common Collocations with Amount
These phrases pair with “amount” in everyday English:
- large amount
- small amount
- amount of time
- amount of money
- total amount
Common Mistakes When Using Amount
Even fluent speakers slip up with “amount”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: The amount of students in the classroom is thirty.
- ✓ Correct: The number of students in the classroom is thirty.
- Why: Use 'number' for countable things like students; use 'amount' for uncountable like water.
- ✗ Wrong: A large amount of apples were on the table.
- ✓ Correct: A large number of apples were on the table.
- Why: Apples are countable, so use 'number', not 'amount'.
Words Confused With Amount
- Amount vs Number: Use 'amount' for uncountable things (water, money, time); use 'number' for countable items (books, people, chairs). Compare →
Other Forms of Amount
Frequently Asked Questions About Amount
What is the meaning of "Amount"?
How much of something you have; the total quantity.
How do you pronounce "Amount"?
The IPA is /əˈmaʊnt/. Two syllables with stress on the second: a-MOUNT. The 'ou' sounds like the 'ow' in 'cow'.
What part of speech is "Amount"?
"Amount" is a noun at B1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Amount"?
Common synonyms include quantity, volume, sum.
How do you use "Amount" in a sentence?
For example: "I need a small amount of sugar for the recipe."