1

having next sentence

The amount of people who are concerned about reforestation is nearly as twice as much (many?) as those who don't care.

I've got next question:
How is more correct to say - much or many? On one hand, we have amount - so it looks like we should use much, on other hand people - and many. Or we have no difference in this case and can choose any?

1
  • 3
    Don't use amount with people; use number instead. People are count, not mass. And then you can just say as large as without having to worry about much or many. Commented Apr 26, 2017 at 19:25

1 Answer 1

5

To know when to use much or many depends on if it refers something countable or uncountable.

In this specific example people is countable, so it's correct to use many.

Also, using "The amount of people" might be correct grammar but it does sound slightly strange or awkward.

According to Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2017.

Usage note:
The traditional distinction between amount and number is that amount is used with mass or uncountable nouns ( the amount of paperwork; the amount of energy) and number with countable nouns ( a number of songs; a number of days).
Although objected to, the use of amount instead of number with countable nouns occurs in both speech and writing, especially when the noun can be considered as a unit or group ( the amount of people present; the amount of weapons) or when it refers to money ( the amount of dollars paid; the amount of pennies in the till).

1
  • 1
    I reformatted your quote using block quote, which is selectable from the top of the format menu marked with ["] quote marks. In the future, please use this, or mark with a wedgie [>] to set off quotes. Commented Apr 26, 2017 at 19:50

You must log in to answer this question.