Number - word and symbol
This section is in reference to the word "number," the phrase "number of" and the number symbol (#).
The collective noun may be singular or plural. If preceded by the word the, it takes a singular verb. If preceded by the word a, it takes a plural verb.
The number of incisions was kept to a minimum.
A number of incisions were made.
Use the word number to refer to people or things that can be counted. The word number delineates how many; the word amount delineates how much.
CORRECT: A large number of people were present.
INCORRECT: A large amount of people were present.
There was a relatively small amount of bleeding, considering the large number of wounds.
(Amount refers to mass/how much bleeding. Wounds can be counted and therefore are expressed as a number, not amount.)
You may use the abbreviation (No.) or symbol (#) for the word number. When the symbol (#) is used, the numeral follows with no space between. The abbreviation (No.) is capitalized and has an ending period, followed by a space.
A No. 12 blade
A #12 blade
Tylenol No. 3
Refer to account or employer specifics for appropriate use of abbreviation.
If the term number precedes a figure, express it as an abbreviation. (singular: No., plural: Nos.). At the beginning of a sentence, spell out Number to prevent misreading.
Our check covers invoice Nos. 8592, 9954 and 1017.
Number 12597 has been assigned to your new account.
She is our No. 1 resource on matters relating to that issue.
Use the number symbol (#) with arabic numerals to indicate model and serial numbers.
We implanted model #61-506.
The implant is serial #6512286-010109.
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