Usage of 数目
The word 数目 (shùmù) specifically refers to a countable amount or number of items, often used in formal or written contexts such as statistics, inventory, or official counts. It emphasizes the quantitative aspect rather than abstract amounts.
Common Collocations
- 数目统计 (shùmù tǒngjì): number statistics, used in data analysis.
- 数目增加 (shùmù zēngjiā): increase in number, common in reports.
- 数目有限 (shùmù yǒuxiàn): limited number, used to express scarcity.
Notes
数目 is more formal and precise than just 数 or 量 when referring to quantities. It is often paired with verbs like 统计 (to count/statistics), 增加 (to increase), or 减少 (to decrease). Avoid confusing 数目 with 号码 (hàomǎ), which means 'number' in the sense of an identifier like phone number.
Use 数目 when you want to highlight the exact or official count of items or people, especially in written or professional contexts.