Understanding ‘Less Vs Fewer’: A Comprehensive Guide
Are you confused between ‘less vs fewer’, ‘fewer vs less’, ‘less or fewer’, ‘fewer or less’, or maybe ‘fewer than’? You’re not alone! Millions of English learners grapple with the use of these comparative forms. This guide will demystify all your doubts and significantly enhance your language skills. Prepare to impress with your flawless English!
What are ‘Less’ and ‘Fewer’?
Before diving into ‘less vs fewer’, it’s essential to understand what they mean individually. ‘Less’ and ‘Fewer’ are comparative words used in English to denote a smaller amount of something in comparison to others.
- Less: Used with singular (uncountable) nouns to indicate a smaller amount or quantity.
- Fewer: Used with plural (countable) nouns to signify a smaller number.
How to Use ‘Less’ and ‘Fewer’?
The English language comes with rules, and ‘less vs fewer’ is no exception! Follow these fundamental rules for flawless usage:
- Rule 1: Use ‘less’ before singular nouns, which are usually uncountable. For instance, ‘She has less money than him.’
- Rule 2: Use ‘fewer’ before plural nouns that can be counted. For example, ‘There are fewer apples in this basket.’
Examples: Less Vs Fewer
Let’s cement your understanding with more examples:
- ‘Tom drank less water than Jerry.’ (Less + Uncountable)
- ‘There are fewer cars on the road today.’ (Fewer + Countable)
- ‘There’s less traffic in the city today.’ (Less + Uncountable)
- ‘Sarah has fewer shoes than Mary.’ (Fewer + Countable)
‘Less Vs Fewer’: Answering Your Queries
Here are some common queries from our users, answered for complete clarity:
Q1: Can I use ‘fewer’ instead of ‘less’ in all contexts?
No. ‘Fewer’ is strictly used for countable nouns. So, you can’t say ‘She drank fewer water.’ Instead, you say, ‘She drank less water.’
Q2: What about ‘fewer than’? Is it different from ‘fewer’?
‘Fewer than’ remains true to the rule of ‘fewer’. You use it with countable nouns to denote a smaller number compared to another one. For instance: ‘There are fewer than ten apples in the basket’.
Concluding Thoughts
Once understood, ‘less vs fewer’ can significantly enhance your English skills. Keep practicing, focus on the rules, and you’re set to impress with your command over the language!
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