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A1 noun #3,902 le plus courant 9 min de lecture

数量

sūryō Top 3,902

Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces 数量 en 30 secondes

Explication 数量 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you are just starting to learn how to count things in Japanese. You might already know words like 'ichi' (one), 'ni' (two), and 'san' (three). The word 'suuryou' (数量) is a bit more advanced than those simple numbers, but it is very useful to know because you will see it on shopping websites and order forms. Think of 'suuryou' as the label for 'How many?'. When you see this word on a button or a form, it is asking you to pick a number. At this level, you don't need to use 'suuryou' in long sentences. Just recognize that 'suu' means 'number' and 'ryou' means 'amount'. If you are at a store and want to ask for a specific number of items, you can point to the 'suuryou' on your phone or a piece of paper. It is a very 'practical' word for beginners who want to shop in Japan or use Japanese websites. Remember, in A1, we focus on recognizing the word in the real world, like on a menu or a checkout screen.

At the A2 level, you can start using 'suuryou' in simple sentences, especially when shopping or talking about basic needs. You might say 'Suuryou o oshiete kudasai' (Please tell me the quantity) when you are helping a friend buy something. You are also learning 'counters' like '-ko' for small objects or '-mai' for flat objects. 'Suuryou' is the general word that covers all these counters. In A2, you should understand that 'suuryou' is more formal than 'kazu' (number). If you are at a part-time job in Japan, your boss might ask you to check the 'suuryou' of the stock. This is a great word to make you sound more professional even with basic Japanese. You should also be able to recognize 'suuryou gentei' (limited quantity), which is common on posters for special snacks or toys. Understanding this word helps you realize that you need to hurry if you want to buy that item!

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As a B1 learner, you are moving into intermediate Japanese where you can handle more professional and social situations. You should use 'suuryou' comfortably in business contexts. For example, when sending an email to a supplier, you would write about the 'suuryou' of the items you want to order. You are also starting to understand 'kango' (Sino-Japanese words) better. You can see how 'suuryou' is part of a family of words like 'onryou' (sound volume) or 'youryou' (capacity). At this level, you should be careful not to use 'suuryou' for people or money, as that would sound unnatural. Instead, you use 'ninzuu' for people and 'kingaku' for money. You can also start using 'suuryou' with more complex verbs like 'kakunin suru' (to confirm) or 'henkou suru' (to change). This shows that you are not just counting things, but managing and analyzing quantities in a more sophisticated way.

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At the B2 level, you should be able to use 'suuryou' in discussions about data, economics, or technical processes. You might use the phrase 'suuryouteki ni' (quantitatively) to explain your reasoning in a presentation. For instance, 'Suuryouteki ni miru to, kono mondai wa shinkoku desu' (Looking at it quantitatively, this problem is serious). You understand the nuance that 'suuryou' implies a certain level of precision and objectivity. You are also familiar with compound terms like 'suuryou seigen' (quantity limits) and can discuss the reasons behind them, such as supply chain issues or high demand. Your listening skills should allow you to catch 'suuryou' in news broadcasts about trade or agriculture without hesitation. You are now refining your vocabulary to choose the most appropriate 'amount' word (suuryou, bunryou, or kingaku) based on the specific context of the conversation.

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At the C1 level, your use of 'suuryou' should be near-native. You understand the subtle academic and legal implications of the word. In a legal or formal contract, 'suuryou' specifies the exact measurable amount of goods to be exchanged, and you understand the importance of this precision. You can participate in high-level debates about 'suuryou' vs. 'shitsu' (quality), arguing for the merits of each in different industries. You are also comfortable with more obscure idioms or technical jargon involving 'suuryou' in fields like physics or advanced mathematics. When writing reports, you use 'suuryou' to maintain a consistent, formal register. You can also appreciate the stylistic choice of using 'suuryou' in literature to create a cold, analytical tone or a sense of overwhelming abundance. Your mastery means you never confuse 'suuryou' with its synonyms, and you can explain the differences to lower-level learners with ease.

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At the C2 level, 'suuryou' is a tool you use with total precision and stylistic flair. You can use it in philosophical contexts, discussing the 'suuryou' of existence or abstract mathematical magnitudes. You are capable of reading and writing complex technical specifications where 'suuryou' is defined with extreme narrowness. You understand the historical development of the kanji 数 and 量 and how their combination reflects centuries of Japanese commercial history. You can switch between formal 'suuryou' and colloquial 'ryou' or 'kazu' perfectly to suit the social atmosphere, even using 'suuryou' ironically or for emphasis in creative writing. Your understanding extends to how 'suuryou' interacts with complex grammatical structures and passive/causative forms in high-level business negotiations. Essentially, the word is an integrated part of your vast Japanese lexicon, used with the same nuance and ease as a native speaker of the highest education level.

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Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

数量 en 30 secondes

数量 (suuryou) means 'quantity' or 'amount' in a formal, professional context.
It combines the kanji for 'number' (数) and 'volume/measure' (量).
Commonly used in business, online shopping, and logistics for precise counting.
Avoid using it for people or money; use 'ninzuu' or 'kingaku' instead.

The Japanese word 数量 (すうりょう - suuryou) is a fundamental noun that translates to 'quantity' or 'amount' in English. It is a compound word formed by two kanji: 数 (suu), meaning 'number' or 'count', and 量 (ryou), meaning 'quantity', 'volume', or 'weight'. When combined, they create a comprehensive term that encompasses both the countable number of items and the measurable volume or mass of a substance. In everyday Japanese, while you might use simpler words like 数 (kazu) for just counting items, 数量 is the preferred term in more formal, technical, or commercial settings where precision is required.

Etymological Breakdown: The first character, 数, represents the act of counting or a numerical value. The second character, 量, originally depicted a measuring container used for grain, symbolizing capacity or weight. Together, they represent the total 'measure' of an object or group of objects.
Contextual Usage: You will most frequently encounter this word in business transactions, inventory management, scientific reports, and on shipping labels. For instance, when filling out an order form online, the field asking 'How many do you want?' is almost always labeled as 数量. It suggests a level of accuracy that is essential for logistics and data analysis.

注文の数量を間違えてしまいました。(Chuumon no suuryou o machigaete shimaimashita.) - I made a mistake with the order quantity.

In a social context, using 数量 instead of simple counters shows a professional demeanor. If you are working in a Japanese office, your supervisor will ask for the 数量 of stock remaining, not just 'how many'. It implies that you are looking at the data objectively. Furthermore, in mathematics and physics, 数量 refers to 'magnitude' or 'scalar quantity', distinguishing it from vectors which have direction.

在庫の数量を確認してください。(Zaiko no suuryou o kakunin shite kudasai.) - Please check the quantity of the stock.

Finally, understand that 数量 is often used with specific verbs like 確認する (kakunin suru - to check), 入力する (nyuuryoku suru - to input), and 制限する (seigen suru - to limit). For example, 'Quantity limit' is 数量制限 (suuryou seigen), a common sight during sales or at popular tourist attractions where items per person are restricted. By mastering this word, you move from basic 'counting' Japanese to 'professional' Japanese.

Using 数量 correctly involves understanding its role as a formal noun. It typically functions as the object of a sentence or as a modifier for other nouns. Because it is a Sino-Japanese word (kango), it carries a stiff, formal tone that is perfect for writing and professional speech. Let's explore the various grammatical structures where 数量 appears most frequently.

1. Noun + の + 数量 (Quantity of X): This is the most common pattern. It specifies what you are measuring. For example, 商品の数量 (shouhin no suuryou) means 'quantity of goods'.
2. 数量 + を + Verb (Action on Quantity): Used when you are actively doing something with the quantity, such as counting, checking, or changing it. Common verbs include 数える (kazoeru - count) and 変更する (henkou suru - change).

必要な数量を教えてください。(Hitsuyou na suuryou o oshiete kudasai.) - Please tell me the required quantity.

In complex sentences, 数量 can be part of a compound noun. For example, 数量限定 (suuryou gentei) means 'limited quantity'. You will see this on posters for limited-edition products. If a store says '数量限定品', it means 'limited quantity item'. This is a powerful marketing term in Japan, often used to create a sense of urgency (scarcity principle).

この商品は数量限定です。(Kono shouhin wa suuryou gentei desu.) - This product is limited in quantity.

Another advanced usage is in the phrase 数量的に (suuryouteki ni), meaning 'quantitatively'. This is used when you want to emphasize that you are looking at numbers rather than quality. For example, 'Quantitatively speaking, this plan is better' would be 数量的に言えば、この計画の方が良いです。. This is very common in academic writing or business analysis where data-driven decisions are made.

輸出の数量が増えています。(Yushutsu no suuryou ga fuete imasu.) - The quantity of exports is increasing.

When describing a large or small quantity, you can use 多大な (tadai na - huge) or わずかな (wazuka na - slight). However, it is more common to simply say 数量が多い (suuryou ga ooi - quantity is large) or 数量が少ない (suuryou ga sukunai - quantity is small). This keeps the sentence clear and direct, which is the hallmark of effective technical Japanese.

In the real world, 数量 isn't a word you'll hear much in a casual chat between friends at a cafe. Instead, it thrives in environments governed by logic, commerce, and logistics. If you are living or working in Japan, being attuned to where this word pops up will help you navigate professional and administrative situations with much more ease.

1. Online Shopping and E-commerce: When using sites like Amazon Japan or Rakuten, look at the dropdown menu where you select how many items you want. The label above that menu is invariably 数量. If you try to buy too many of a limited item, an error message might appear saying 数量制限を超えています (Suuryou seigen o koete imasu) - 'You have exceeded the quantity limit'.
2. Logistics and Warehousing: If you work in a warehouse or receive a large delivery, the delivery slip (denpyou) will have a column for 数量. Staff will walk around with clipboards saying, 「数量の確認をお願いします」 (Suuryou no kakunin o onegaishimasu), which means 'Please verify the quantities'.

伝票の数量と荷物の数が合いません。(Denpyou no suuryou to nimotsu no kazu ga aimasen.) - The quantity on the slip and the number of packages don't match.

In the news, specifically economic reports, announcers use 数量 to discuss import/export volumes or agricultural yields. You might hear, 「今年の米の収穫数量は...」 (Kotoshi no kome no shuukaku suuryou wa...), meaning 'This year's rice harvest quantity is...'. Here, it sounds much more authoritative and data-driven than using the colloquial word 量 (ryou).

購入数量を選んでカートに入れてください。(Kounyuu suuryou o erande kaato ni irete kudasai.) - Select the purchase quantity and add it to the cart.

You will also hear this at customs (zeikan) when entering Japan. If you have many items of the same type, the officer might ask about the 数量 to determine if they are for personal use or commercial resale. In this high-stakes environment, using the correct term 数量 helps establish that you understand the formal requirements of the process.

While 数量 is a versatile word, English speakers often trip up by using it in places where Japanese people would use more specific or simpler terms. Understanding these nuances is the difference between sounding like a textbook and sounding like a natural speaker.

Mistake 1: Confusing 数量 with 数 (Kazu): In casual conversation, if you ask 'How many people are coming?', you should use 人数 (ninzuu) or just 数 (kazu). Saying 「人の数量は何人ですか？」 sounds extremely strange and robotic, as if you are treating people like industrial inventory. Use 数量 for objects, goods, and data, but rarely for people or living things in social contexts.
Mistake 2: Using it for Money: English uses 'amount' for both quantity and money (e.g., 'the amount of money'). In Japanese, money has its own specific word: 金額 (kingaku). Never say お金の数量 (okane no suuryou); always use お金の金額 or just 金額.

❌ お金の数量を教えてください。
✅ お金の金額を教えてください。
(Please tell me the amount of money.)

Another subtle mistake is using 数量 when you mean 'volume' in a physical sense, like the loudness of a TV or the space inside a box. For TV volume, use 音量 (onryou). For physical space/capacity, use 容量 (youryou) or 体積 (taiseki). 数量 is about the 'how many' and 'how much' in a count/mass sense, not the physical dimensions.

この箱の容量は大きいです。(Kono hako no youryou wa ookii desu.) - This box has a large capacity. (Don't use suuryou here!)

Finally, be careful with the particle を (o). While you can 'count' a quantity (数量を数える), in English we often say 'increase the quantity'. In Japanese, you 'increase the number' (数を増やす) or 'increase the volume' (量を増やす). While 数量を増やす is technically correct, it sounds very formal—like a corporate strategy. In a kitchen, just use 量を増やす.

Japanese has a rich vocabulary for describing amounts. Choosing the right one depends on whether you are talking about numbers, physical mass, money, or abstract concepts. Here is a comparison of 数量 with its closest cousins.

数量 (Suuryou) vs. 数 (Kazu): 数 is the simple, everyday word for 'number' or 'count'. It is used for anything you can count on your fingers. 数量 is more formal and includes the idea of total volume or mass. Use 数 for 'The number of friends' and 数量 for 'The quantity of inventory'.
数量 (Suuryou) vs. 量 (Ryou): 量 focuses purely on volume, weight, or 'how much'. It is often used for things that aren't easily counted as individual units, like water, sand, or work. 数量 combines both 'how many' and 'how much'. Use 量 when talking about the amount of sugar in coffee.

砂糖の量を減らしてください。(Satou no ryou o herashite kudasai.) - Please reduce the amount of sugar.

Other important alternatives include:

分量 (Bunryou): Specifically used for 'proportions' or 'dosage'. You see this in recipes (e.g., the amount of flour needed) or medicine instructions.
定員 (Teiin): The 'fixed capacity' or 'quota' of people for a room, bus, or event.
額 (Gaku) / 金額 (Kingaku): Used exclusively for monetary amounts.

薬の分量を守ってください。(Kusuri no bunryou o mamotte kudasai.) - Please follow the dosage (amount) of the medicine.

In summary, while English often gets by with the word 'amount', Japanese requires you to categorize that amount. Is it a count? A volume? A proportion? Or a price? By selecting 数量, you are signaling that you are dealing with a precise, countable, and measurable quantity, usually in a formal or professional context.

How Formal Is It?

Le savais-tu ?

The kanji 量 originally depicted a bag filled with grain, which was the standard way to measure volume in ancient East Asia.

Guide de prononciation

UK suːrjəʊ

US suːrjoʊ

The stress is even, but the long vowels 'uu' and 'ou' must be sustained longer than short vowels.

Rime avec

Kouryou (fragrance) Chouryou (dominance) Souryou (shipping fee) Houryou (good catch of fish) Jouryou (distillation) Kyouryou (bridge) Muryou (free of charge) Yuuryou (paid/fee)

Erreurs fréquentes

Pronouncing it as 'suryo' (short vowels) which sounds like a different word.
Using an English 'r' sound instead of the Japanese flap 'r'.
Confusing 'suuryou' with 'suuryo' (which isn't a word).
Failing to elongate the 'u' in 'suu'.
Failing to elongate the 'o' in 'ryou'.

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 3/5

The kanji are common but require N4/N3 knowledge for comfortable reading.

Écriture 4/5

Writing '量' correctly requires attention to the stroke order and internal components.

Expression orale 2/5

The pronunciation is straightforward once the long vowels are mastered.

Écoute 2/5

Easily recognizable in business or shopping contexts.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

数 (Kazu - Number) 量 (Ryou - Amount) 一つ (Hitotsu - One) 多い (Ooi - Many) 少ない (Sukunai - Few)

Apprends ensuite

金額 (Kingaku - Monetary amount) 人数 (Ninzuu - Number of people) 制限 (Seigen - Limit) 在庫 (Zaiko - Stock) 確認 (Kakunin - Confirmation)

Avancé

統計学 (Toukeigaku - Statistics) 定量分析 (Teiryou bunseki - Quantitative analysis) 供給量 (Kyoukyuuryou - Supply amount) 需要量 (Juyouryou - Demand amount) 多寡 (Taka - Amount/Quantity)

Grammaire à connaître

Counters (Josuushi)

数量を「個」や「枚」で表します。(Express quantity using 'ko' or 'mai'.)

Particle 'NO' for modification

商品の数量 (The quantity of the product).

Te-form for requests

数量を入力してください。(Please input the quantity.)

Conditional 'tara' for quantity issues

数量が足りなかったら教えてください。(If the quantity is not enough, please tell me.)

Nominalization with 'no'

数量を数えるのは難しいです。(Counting the quantity is difficult.)

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Exemples par niveau

数量を選んでください。

Please select the quantity.

数量 (quantity) + を (object particle) + 選んで (choose - te form) + ください (please).

数量は一つです。

The quantity is one.

Topic marker 'wa' is used to define the quantity.

ここに数量を書いてください。

Please write the quantity here.

ここ (here) + に (location particle) + 数量 (quantity) + を (object particle) + 書いて (write - te form) + ください (please).

数量を確認します。

I will check the quantity.

Standard Subject-Object-Verb structure.

数量が足りません。

The quantity is not enough.

数量 (quantity) + が (subject particle) + 足りません (not enough - polite negative).

数量はいくらですか？

What is the quantity?

いくら (how much/how many) is used here in a general sense.

数量を教えてください。

Please tell me the quantity.

教えて (tell/teach) + ください (please).

正しい数量を入力してください。

Please input the correct quantity.

正しい (correct) modifies 数量.

注文の数量を変更できますか？

Can I change the order quantity?

変更 (change) + できます (can do) + か (question).

この商品は数量限定です。

This product is limited in quantity.

数量限定 (quantity limit) is a common compound noun.

在庫の数量を数えてください。

Please count the quantity of the stock.

在庫 (stock) + の (possessive) + 数量 (quantity).

数量が多いので、安くなります。

Because the quantity is large, it becomes cheaper.

ので (because) indicates a reason.

箱の中の数量をチェックしました。

I checked the quantity inside the box.

チェックしました (checked - past polite).

必要な数量をメモしました。

I made a note of the required quantity.

必要な (necessary) + 数量 (quantity).

数量を間違えないでください。

Please do not mistake the quantity.

間違えないで (don't mistake - negative te form) + ください.

数量を合わせるのが大変です。

Matching the quantities is difficult.

合わせる (to match) + の (nominalizer) + が (subject).

数量の確認を怠らないようにしましょう。

Let's make sure not to neglect checking the quantity.

怠らない (not neglect) + ようにしましょう (let's try to).

輸出数量が前年より減少しました。

The export quantity decreased compared to last year.

前年より (compared to last year) + 減少しました (decreased).

数量割引が適用されます。

A volume discount will be applied.

数量割引 (quantity discount) is a business term.

正確な数量を把握する必要があります。

It is necessary to grasp the exact quantity.

把握する (to grasp/understand) + 必要 (necessity).

数量制限があるため、お一人様二点までです。

Because there is a quantity limit, it's up to two items per person.

ため (because) + お一人様 (per person).

予定していた数量に達しました。

We have reached the planned quantity.

予定していた (planned) + 達しました (reached).

数量を調整して、注文を出します。

I will adjust the quantity and place the order.

調整して (adjusting) + 出します (submit/send).

数量の誤差が許容範囲内です。

The quantity error is within the acceptable range.

誤差 (error) + 許容範囲内 (within acceptable range).

数量的な分析を行うことで、傾向が見えてきます。

By performing a quantitative analysis, trends become visible.

数量的な (quantitative) + 分析 (analysis).

供給数量が需要を上回っています。

The supply quantity exceeds the demand.

上回っています (exceeding/above).

数量を重視するあまり、品質が低下しました。

By emphasizing quantity too much, quality has declined.

重視する (emphasize) + あまり (too much).

契約書に明記された数量を遵守してください。

Please comply with the quantity specified in the contract.

明記された (specified/clearly written) + 遵守 (compliance).

数量の変動が激しく、予測が困難です。

The fluctuations in quantity are intense, making prediction difficult.

変動 (fluctuation) + 困難 (difficult).

一定の数量を確保するために、早期予約が必要です。

In order to secure a certain quantity, early reservation is necessary.

確保する (to secure) + ために (in order to).

数量ベースで見ると、前年比１０％増です。

Looking at it on a quantity basis, it's a 10% increase compared to last year.

数量ベース (quantity basis) + 前年比 (compared to previous year).

市場に出回る数量をコントロールしています。

They are controlling the quantity circulating in the market.

出回る (circulate) + コントロール (control).

数量化できない価値をどう評価するかが課題だ。

The challenge is how to evaluate value that cannot be quantified.

数量化 (quantification) + できない (cannot).

統計データにおける数量の不整合を指摘した。

I pointed out the inconsistency of quantities in the statistical data.

不整合 (inconsistency) + 指摘した (pointed out).

生産数量の最大化を図る一方で、環境負荷も考慮すべきだ。

While aiming to maximize production quantity, environmental impact should also be considered.

最大化 (maximization) + 一方で (on the other hand).

数量の多寡に関わらず、誠実な対応が求められる。

Regardless of the quantity (large or small), a sincere response is required.

多寡 (amount/quantity - formal) + に関わらず (regardless of).

数量の概念を哲学的に考察する。

To philosophically consider the concept of quantity.

概念 (concept) + 哲学的に (philosophically).

輸出入数量の推移を詳細に分析した報告書を作成した。

I created a report that detailed the transition of import and export quantities.

推移 (transition/change over time).

数量の誤差を極限まで抑える技術が開発された。

A technology to suppress quantity errors to the limit was developed.

極限 (limit) + 抑える (suppress/restrain).

数量の増減が社会構造に与える影響は無視できない。

The impact that the increase or decrease in quantity has on social structure cannot be ignored.

増減 (increase/decrease) + 無視できない (cannot ignore).

数量の抽象化は、近代科学の発展において不可欠なプロセスであった。

The abstraction of quantity was an indispensable process in the development of modern science.

抽象化 (abstraction) + 不可欠 (indispensable).

数量的規定を超越した質的な変容が観察された。

A qualitative transformation that transcended quantitative regulation was observed.

超越 (transcendence) + 規定 (regulation).

その論文は、数量経済学の新たな地平を切り拓いた。

That paper opened up new horizons in quantitative economics.

数量経済学 (quantitative economics).

数量の多義性が、契約解釈における争点となった。

The ambiguity of the quantity became a point of contention in contract interpretation.

多義性 (ambiguity/polysemy) + 争点 (point of contention).

数量を絶対的な真理と見なす実証主義的アプローチを批判する。

I criticize the positivist approach that regards quantity as absolute truth.

実証主義的 (positivist) + 批判 (criticism).

数量の極小化によって、資源の効率的利用を追求する。

By minimizing quantity, we pursue the efficient use of resources.

極小化 (minimization) + 追求 (pursuit).

数量の概念自体が、主観的な認識によって構築されている。

The concept of quantity itself is constructed by subjective perception.

構築されている (is being constructed).

数量の均衡が崩れるとき、システム全体が崩壊の危機に瀕する。

When the balance of quantity collapses, the entire system faces the risk of destruction.

均衡 (balance/equilibrium) + 瀕する (to be on the verge of).

Synonymes

数量分量数値ボリューム

Antonymes

質品質

Collocations courantes

数量を確認する

数量を限定する

数量を調整する

数量が多い

数量が少ない

数量を数える

数量を入力する

数量を把握する

数量を間違える

数量を比較する

Phrases Courantes

数量限定

— Limited quantity. Usually seen on products that will not be restocked.

数量限定のケーキを買いました。

数量制限

— Quantity limit. A rule stating how many items one person can buy.

一人二点までの数量制限があります。

数量割引

— Quantity discount. A lower price given when buying many items.

数量割引でお得になります。

注文数量

— Order quantity. The number of items requested by a customer.

注文数量を確認してください。

販売数量

— Sales quantity. The total number of items sold.

今月の販売数量は過去最高です。

生産数量

— Production quantity. The amount of goods manufactured.

工場の生産数量を増やします。

在庫数量

— Inventory quantity. The amount of stock currently held.

在庫数量がゼロになりました。

輸出数量

— Export quantity. The amount of goods sent to other countries.

日本の輸出数量は安定しています。

必要数量

— Required quantity. The amount needed for a specific task.

必要数量をリストに書きました。

合計数量

— Total quantity. The sum of all individual quantities.

合計数量は百個です。

Souvent confondu avec

数量 vs 送料 (Souryou)

Sounds similar but means 'shipping fee'. Watch the first vowel!

数量 vs 重量 (Juuryou)

Means 'weight'. Suuryou is quantity/count; juuryou is how heavy it is.

数量 vs 容量 (Youryou)

Means 'capacity'. Used for how much a container can hold, not the count of items.

Expressions idiomatiques

"質より量"

— Quantity over quality. Choosing to have more items rather than better ones.

今は質より量が必要だ。

Casual

"量より質"

— Quality over quantity. Choosing to have better items rather than more of them.

大人の食事は量より質だ。

Casual

"数量を稼ぐ"

— To pad the numbers or to increase quantity just for the sake of it.

レポートの枚数で数量を稼ぐ。

Neutral

"数をこなす"

— To handle a large number of tasks or items to gain experience.

まずは数をこなして慣れよう。

Informal

"桁が違う"

— To be in a different league (literally: the number of digits is different).

彼の成功は桁が違う。

Informal

"枚挙にいとまがない"

— Too many to count/enumerate.

不満を言えば枚挙にいとまがない。

Formal

"ごまんといる"

— To be as many as the grains of sand (thousands and thousands).

そんな人は世の中にごまんといる。

Informal

"掃いて捨てるほどある"

— So many that you could sweep them up and throw them away (excessive).

そんなアイデアは掃いて捨てるほどある。

Informal

"目も当てられない"

— Too many (errors/problems) to even look at.

数量のミスが多すぎて目も当てられない。

Neutral

"山ほどある"

— To have a mountain of something (a very large quantity).

宿題が山ほどある。

Informal

Facile à confondre

数量 vs 数 (Kazu)

Both mean number.

Kazu is casual and refers only to counts. Suuryou is formal and can include volume/mass.

数の数え方 (How to count numbers) vs 数量の確認 (Verification of quantity).

数量 vs 金額 (Kingaku)

English 'amount' covers both.

Kingaku is only for money. Suuryou is never for money.

金額を払う (Pay the amount) vs 数量を数える (Count the quantity).

数量 vs 人数 (Ninzuu)

Both refer to 'how many'.

Ninzuu is only for people. Suuryou is for objects/data.

参加人数 (Number of participants) vs 注文数量 (Order quantity).

数量 vs 分量 (Bunryou)

Both mean 'amount'.

Bunryou is used for portions or ingredients (recipes/medicine). Suuryou is used for trade/inventory.

塩の分量 (Amount of salt) vs 商品の数量 (Quantity of goods).

数量 vs 音量 (Onryou)

Both end in 'ryou'.

Onryou is specifically for sound volume (TV, radio).

音量を下げる (Lower the volume) vs 数量を減らす (Reduce the quantity).

Structures de phrases

数量は [Number] です。

数量は五つです。

[Noun] の数量を確認する。

リンゴの数量を確認する。

数量を [Verb] ようにしてください。

数量を間違えないようにしてください。

数量的に [Verb/Adjective]。

数量的に分析する。

数量の多寡にかかわらず、[Sentence]。

数量の多寡にかかわらず、丁寧に対応します。

数量的規定に基づく [Noun]。

数量的規定に基づく判断。

数量限定のため、[Sentence]。

数量限定のため、売り切れました。

数量を選んで [Verb]。

数量を選んでクリックしてください。

Famille de mots

Noms

数 (Kazu - Number)

量 (Ryou - Amount)

計量 (Keiryou - Measurement)

分量 (Bunryou - Proportion)

Verbes

数える (Kazoeru - To count)

量る (Hakaru - To measure weight/volume)

数量化する (Suuryouka suru - To quantify)

Adjectifs

数多い (Kazuooi - Numerous)

多量な (Taryou na - Large amount)

少量な (Shouryou na - Small amount)

Apparenté

単位 (Tan'i - Unit)

計算 (Keisan - Calculation)

統計 (Toukei - Statistics)

在庫 (Zaiko - Inventory)

注文 (Chuumon - Order)

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Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Very high in commercial and technical domains; moderate in general daily speech.

Erreurs courantes

Using 数量 for money. → 金額 (Kingaku)
In English, 'amount' works for both items and money. In Japanese, 'suuryou' is strictly for items/data, while 'kingaku' is for money. Saying 'okane no suuryou' sounds like you are counting individual coins as objects rather than their value.
Using 数量 for people. → 人数 (Ninzuu)
People are not 'quantities' in a commercial sense in social Japanese. Use 'ninzuu' to be respectful and natural. 'Suuryou' makes it sound like you are counting cargo.
Shortening the vowels to 'suryo'. → 数量 (Suuryou)
Japanese is sensitive to vowel length. 'Suuryou' has two long vowels. Shortening them can lead to confusion with other words or make you unintelligible to native speakers.
Using 数量 to mean 'volume' of a TV. → 音量 (Onryou)
While 'ryou' means amount, 'suuryou' is for counts/mass. For sound volume, the specific term 'onryou' (sound-amount) must be used.
Confusing 数量 with 送料 (shipping fee). → 数量 (Suuryou)
This is a common listening mistake because both start with 's' and end in 'ryou'. Context is key: shipping fees are about money, while quantity is about the items.

Astuces

Kanji Tip

Notice that both kanji in 数量 contain the 'rice' (米) or 'measure' elements. '数' has the 'rice' radical on the left, and '量' looks like a stack of measuring boxes. This helps you remember it's about counting and measuring things like grain.

Business Etiquette

When reporting to a Japanese boss, always use 'suuryou' to sound more professional. Even if you are counting something simple like pens, 'suuryou' shows you are taking the task seriously as part of inventory management.

Don't Rush

In Japanese, long vowels are crucial. If you say 'suryo' instead of 'suuryou', people might not understand you. Take your time to stretch the 'uu' and 'ou' sounds.

Scarcity Marketing

Keep an eye out for '数量限定' (Limited Quantity) in Japanese supermarkets. It's a very common marketing tactic. If you see it on a seasonal snack, it usually means it will be gone in a few weeks!

Compound Power

数量 is often the first part of compound words. Instead of saying 'the limit of the quantity', Japanese just says 'quantity-limit' (数量制限). Learning these compounds is faster than building full sentences.

Shopping Online

When shopping on Amazon Japan, the quantity selector is almost always labeled '数量'. Memorize the kanji so you can find it quickly on any checkout page.

Data Analysis

If you study science or math in Japanese, '数量' is used for scalar values. It's an essential term for describing any data that can be measured with a number.

No Money, No People

Remember the 'No Money, No People' rule for 'suuryou'. Use 'kingaku' for money and 'ninzuu' for people. This is the most common mistake for English speakers.

Clear Forms

When creating a form in Japanese, use '数量' as the header for columns where people enter numbers. It is the standard, professional way to label that field.

Announcements

In train stations or department stores, announcements about 'limited quantity' items will use 'suuryou'. Listen for the distinctive 'suu-ryou' rhythm.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of a 'SUper' 'RYOU' (amount). A 'Super Amount' is the total quantity.

Association visuelle

Imagine a warehouse full of boxes with a big sign saying '数量' (Quantity) and a robot counting them.

Word Web

数 (Number) 量 (Amount) 在庫 (Stock) 注文 (Order) 割引 (Discount) 制限 (Limit) 確認 (Check) 誤差 (Error)

Défi

Go to an online Japanese shop (like Amazon.co.jp) and find the word 数量 on a product page. Try changing the number in the dropdown menu.

Origine du mot

Borrowed from Middle Chinese. The compound is made of '数' (number) and '量' (measure/volume).

Sens originel : The act of counting and measuring the volume of goods.

Sino-Japanese (Kango).

Contexte culturel

Avoid using 'suuryou' when talking about the number of guests or people at a funeral or wedding; use 'ninzuu' or 'o-kyaku-sama no kazu' to be polite.

English speakers often say 'amount' for everything. Japanese requires you to distinguish between 'suuryou' (general quantity), 'kingaku' (money), and 'ninzuu' (people).

The phrase '数量限定' (Suuryou Gentei) is a staple of Japanese marketing. Inventory management systems (like those at Toyota) rely on precise 'suuryou' tracking. The 'Quantity' field in the Nintendo eShop or PlayStation Store in Japan.

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

Online Shopping

数量を選択する (Select quantity)
数量を変更する (Change quantity)
数量限定品 (Limited quantity item)
数量不足 (Insufficient quantity)

Business/Warehouse

数量の確認 (Quantity check)
数量をご連絡ください (Please contact us with the quantity)
数量を調整する (Adjust quantity)
在庫数量 (Inventory quantity)

Cooking/Recipes

分量を確認する (Check proportions - similar to suuryou)
適量 (Proper amount)
数量を半分にする (Halve the quantity)
材料の数量 (Quantity of ingredients)

Economics/News

輸出数量 (Export quantity)
輸入数量 (Import quantity)
生産数量 (Production quantity)
数量ベース (On a quantity basis)

Customer Service

数量を間違えました (I made a mistake in the quantity)
数量制限があります (There is a quantity limit)
数量の変更はできません (Cannot change the quantity)
合計数量 (Total quantity)

Amorces de conversation

"この商品の数量を二つに変更できますか？ (Can I change the quantity of this product to two?)"

"在庫の数量を確認するのにどれくらい時間がかかりますか？ (How long will it take to check the stock quantity?)"

"このキャンペーンは数量限定ですか？ (Is this campaign limited in quantity?)"

"注文の数量を間違えてしまったのですが、修正できますか？ (I mistook the order quantity, can I fix it?)"

"数量割引はありますか？ (Is there a quantity discount?)"

Sujets d'écriture

今日、数量限定の商品を買いましたか？何を買いましたか？ (Did you buy a limited quantity item today? What was it?)

仕事や学校で、数量を数える作業をしましたか？ (Did you do any work involving counting quantities at work or school?)

「質より量」と「量より質」、あなたはどちらが大切だと思いますか？ (Which do you think is more important, 'quantity over quality' or 'quality over quantity'?)

最近、数量を間違えて困ったことはありますか？ (Have you had any trouble lately from mistaking a quantity?)

オンラインショッピングで数量を選ぶとき、何を考えますか？ (What do you think about when selecting a quantity during online shopping?)

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

Generally, no. For people, use '人数' (ninzuu) or '数' (kazu). Using 'suuryou' for people makes them sound like inanimate objects or industrial stock, which is impolite or robotic.

量 (ryou) is a general word for 'amount' or 'volume' and is used in daily life (e.g., amount of food). 数量 (suuryou) is more formal and specific to counting and measuring in business or science.

You say '数量限定' (suuryou gentei). You will often see this on labels for special edition products in Japan.

No. For monetary amounts, you must use '金額' (kingaku) or '額' (gaku). 'Suuryou' refers to physical items or data points, not currency.

It is '数量割引' (suuryou wabiki). This is common in B2B transactions or bulk stores like Costco.

Hold the 'uu' in 'suu' for two beats and the 'ou' in 'ryou' for two beats. It should sound like 'soo-ryoh' but with the Japanese 'r' and sustained vowels.

Use 'suuryou' when you are filling out a form, writing a business report, or talking to a store clerk about an order. Use 'kazu' for casual counting, like 'the number of stars'.

It is a noun. To use it like an adjective, you must add 'no' (数量の) or 'teki na' (数量的な).

It means 'quantity limit'. It's used when a store restricts how many of an item a single customer can purchase.

It is generally considered N4 or N3 because of the kanji, but beginners (A1/A2) should learn it for practical reasons like shopping.

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