Why We Say '3 Million' Instead of '3 Millions': Explaining the Grammar Behind Numbers in English

The usage of numbers in English can sometimes be perplexing, especially when it comes to expressing large quantities. For instance, why do we say '3 million' instead of '3 millions', and why do we have different rules for expressions like 'millions of people'? Understanding these nuances is essential for both native and non-native English speakers. This article aims to clarify the grammatical differences between using 'million' and 'millions' in various contexts.

Specifying a Precise Quantity vs. Referring to a Large but Indefinite Quantity

When it comes to specifying a precise quantity, the singular form 'million' is used (e.g., 3 million). This usage indicates a single, exact quantity. For example, if we want to denote a specific amount of money, we say:

Three million dollars

Here, '3 million' refers to a single quantity of one million dollars, not multiple sets of one million dollars.

On the other hand, when referring to a large but indefinite quantity, the plural form 'millions' is used (e.g., millions of people). This form implies a multiple quantity of millions, suggesting a number that is large but not precisely specified. For example:

Millions of people have gotten a COVID-19 shot

In this example, 'millions of people' implies a number greater than one million, but the exact amount is not known or not specified.

A Number of vs. The Number of

It's also important to note the distinction between 'a number of' and 'the number of'. When you use 'a number of', you are talking about any unspecified amount:

A number of people got vaccinated

Here, 'a number of' can mean any number, from two to hundreds.

When 'the number of' is used, it refers to a specific, given quantity:

The number of people who got vaccinated is increasing

This usage is more formal and implies that a specific quantity is known or specified.

General Pattern in English Numbers

This is actually part of a regular pattern in English. For numeral terms used as quantifiers, the singular form is generally preferred. Some examples include:

Three million dollars

Tens of people

Hundreds of animals

Thousands of dollars

Here, 'million, ' 'tens, ' 'hundreds, ' and 'thousands' are in singular form, indicating a precise quantity or a multiple quantity, depending on the context.

Pluralization of Number Terms as Nouns

However, when these numeral terms are used as nouns to indicate multiples, they can be pluralized. For example:

Numbers of people

Numbers of animals

In these cases, 'numbers' is used to indicate multiple sets of the specified quantity.

Conclusion

The difference in usage between '3 million' and '3 millions' highlights the importance of understanding the context and grammatical rules when using numbers in English. By adhering to these conventions, you can communicate more clearly and accurately in both written and spoken English.

Additional Resources

For further exploration, consider the following resources:

English Grammar: Numbers English Grammar Guide BBC Learning English

Understanding these rules can enhance your ability to use English effectively and accurately in various situations.