Quantity refers to the how much; number to the how many. “He purchased a large quantity of wheat, corn, apples, lime, and sand, and a number of houses, stores, chairs, and books.” It is, therefore, incorrect to say, “There was a large quantity of bicycles in the yard,” “He sold a large quantity of books at auction.”
Quite a few
In some parts of the country this expression is in common use in the sense of many, a large number, etc. “How many people were at church to-day?” “Quite a few,” meaning a considerable number.
Commence, Begin
Some persons always commence, but never begin. The tendency toward pomp and parade in speech prompts many persons to avoid the use of our strong, rugged Anglo-Saxon words, and to substitute their high-sounding Latin equivalents, until, in time, the preferable native forms come to be regarded as commonplace and objectionable. American usage is more faulty than English in this regard. Use begin and beginning more, and commence and, commencement less.
Complete, Finished
There is a distinction in the use of these words that is not always observed. Complete signifies nothing lacking, every element and part being supplied. That which is finished has had all done to it that was intended. A vessel may be finished and yet be incomplete.
Conclusion, End
The more pretentious word conclusion is often used where the simple Anglo-Saxon word end would be preferable.
Conscious, Aware