Are we being literal with 'hundreds of thousands'?

[peteryoung]

Expressions like 'thousands of', 'hundreds of thousands', 'hundreds of millions of' are often seen in media. But apparently dictionaries say they provide little more than a concept of 'many'. If so, how come news writers choose not to use 'many' instead? Any reply will be appreciated.:)

[Casiopea]

"thousands" is less vague than "many". It has an associated number. "many" doesn't.

[peteryoung]

Many thanks!

[A.Russell]

It depends how much ice cream you have to cover.