What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
quanta
Example
The energy of light is quantized into small packets called quanta. [quanta: noun]
Example
The quanta of electromagnetic radiation are called photons. [quanta: plural noun]
quantity
Example
We need to measure the quantity of sugar needed for the recipe. [quantity: noun]
Example
The quantity of rainfall this month has been higher than usual. [quantity: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Quantity is a much more common word than quanta and is used in a wide variety of contexts, from cooking to economics to science. Quanta is a more specialized term used primarily in physics and related fields.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between quanta and quantity?
Quanta is a more technical and specialized term, and therefore tends to be used in more formal or academic contexts. Quantity is a more general and versatile term that can be used in both formal and informal settings.
