Used to describe the exact quantity of items or materials a ship can transport.

Literal Meaning

Often utilized in business and shipping contexts to discuss cargo capacity or import/export operations.

Commercial Use

Can refer to a particular type of cargo when paired with another noun, indicating what the shipment contains.

Used to exaggerate the quantity of non-shipping related items or situations, emphasizing a large amount or excess.

Common in informal speech, especially when expressing personal feelings about overwhelming quantities.

When used figuratively, it does not relate to actual ships or cargo, but to the idea of 'a lot'.