The word 数目 is formed by combining the character 数 (shù), which carries the core meaning of "number" or "count", with 目 (mù), whose fundamental meaning is "eye" but here is used metaphorically to imply "item", "detail", or a listed entry. This combination creates a conceptual image where individual counted items (目) are brought together under the action of counting (数) to result in the final, total "number" or "amount". The formation essentially visualizes a process: from discrete, visible items to an aggregated numerical total.