Abbreviation of "number"

I agree that "no" as an abbreviation, whether capitalized and full-stopped or not, is liable to be confusing in all but the very clearest contexts. I would use the endearingly-named "hash mark" if at all possible, especially before another word (# of messages).

I don't know what you're writing, but if it's a chart of some kind, sometimes it's possible to substitute another number word, like "total messages" or "monthly messages" for a phrase like "number of messages." When the column is filled by numbers, of course, it's plain to everyone what you mean.

You gave the best response.

Paul Darst

Tallahassee, Florida, USA

In SMM7 (Standard method of measurement, for construction) the word 'number' is abbreviated by 'nr', I personall use 'nr', but I haven't seen it used anywhere else.

Our question goes along the same line.  Why do we abbreviate number as no. when there isn't an 'o' in the word?  Why isn't it nu. or num.?

Thanks!

Cool Breeze

There is an o in the Italian  word numéro.

Sorry, this is an off topic, but we would write it numero, without any diacritical sign.
If we had to put one, it would be nùmero, because here the diacritic is used to mark the stress (NU-me-ro, not nu-ME-ro).
However, you're very unlikely to find it written with the diacritic, dictionares and textbooks for learners of Italian aside.

We abbreviate it as "n." "or "No."