Cool MateCounts vs It does matter
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
Counts
Top 2,000 (common)
It does matter
Top 1,000 (very common)
Most common: It does matter
| Counts | It does matter | |
|---|---|---|
| Pronunciation | 🇬🇧 //kaʊnts//🇺🇸 //kaʊnts// | 🇬🇧 //ɪt dʌz ˈmætər//🇺🇸 //ɪt dʌz ˈmætər// |
| Meaning | The total number of something. | It is important. |
| Example | The counts of the votes will be announced tomorrow. | In the end, it does matter how much effort you put into your work. |
| Register | Neutral | Neutral |
| How common | Top 2,000 (common) | Top 1,000 (very common) |
| Collocations | counts of votes, counts of items, actual counts, counts in statistics, counts for inventory | it does matter how, it does matter what, it does matter when, it does matter who, it does matter where |
| Antonyms | zero, none | - |
| Common mistakes | Confused with 'counts' as a verb in singular vs plural forms., Using 'count' when referring to multiple examples instead of 'counts'. | Confused with 'it doesn't matter'., Using it inappropriately in casual conversations as it might feel too strong., Overusing in statements that don't require emphasis. |
| Usage notes | Use 'counts' when referring to how many items there are. Avoid in very formal writing. Can be used in various contexts such as counting items, importance, or ongoing actions. | Use when emphasizing the significance of something. Appropriate in both formal and informal contexts. |
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Frequently asked questions: Counts vs It does matter
What's the difference between Counts and It does matter?
Counts: The total number of something. It does matter: It is important.
Which is more common: Counts and It does matter?
It does matter is the most common in everyday English.
Can you show an example of each?
Counts: The counts of the votes will be announced tomorrow. It does matter: In the end, it does matter how much effort you put into your work.
Can I use Counts and It does matter interchangeably?
Not always. Counts and It does matter are related and overlap in some contexts, but they differ in register, how common they are, and usage, so swapping one for another can change the meaning or tone. Check the differences above before substituting.