1.
number of long/thin objects
The count or quantity of objects counted with the counter 本, such as bottles, pens, trees, or legs.
ペンの本数を数えた。
I counted the number of pens.
木の本数が足りない。
We don't have enough trees.
映画の撮影で使うフィルムの本数を確認した。
I confirmed the number of film rolls to use in the movie shoot.
2.
number of runs, frequency of service
The number of train runs, bus services, or similar scheduled departures. Commonly used when discussing transportation frequency.
この路線は本数が少ない。
This train line has few runs.
朝のラッシュ時はバスの本数が増える。
The number of bus services increases during the morning rush.
終電後の電車の本数が減らされて不便になった。
The number of late-night train services was reduced, making things inconvenient.
USAGE:
A compound of the counter 本 (for long, thin objects) and 数 (number). Sense 2 (transportation frequency) is extremely common in daily life — 本数が少ない (few trains/buses running) is a frequent complaint about rural or late-night services.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 電車の本数: number of train runs
- バスの本数: number of bus services
- 本数が少ない: few runs/services
- 本数を増やす: to increase the number of services
Related Words
Related:
枚数