The difference between few and less, English Vocabulary

The words "few" and "less" are often confused because they both refer to a smaller quantity of something. However, they have different meanings and are used differently in sentences. In this blog post, we will explore the difference between "few" and "less" and how to use them correctly.

The difference between few and less

Few:

"Few" is used to describe a small number of something that is countable, such as people, objects, or animals. It is usually used with a plural noun and is often followed by "than" or "of." 

For example:

• Fewer people attended the concert than we expected.
• He has few friends.
• There are few animals in the forest.

Less:

"Less" is used to describe a smaller amount or quantity of something that is not countable, such as water, time, or money. It is often used with a singular noun and is usually followed by "than" or "of." 

For example:

• She has less time to complete the project than she thought.
• He spent less money on the car than he did on the house.
• There is less water in the lake this year than last year.

The key difference between "few" and "less" is that "few" refers to a smaller number of something that is countable, while "less" refers to a smaller amount or quantity of something that is not countable.

Some examples of correct usage:

• Fewer people are using cash these days.
• There is less sugar in this recipe than the original one.
• She has few clothes to wear to the party.
• I need less coffee in the morning than I used to.
• There are fewer cars on the road during the pandemic.
• There is less pollution in the city due to the lockdown.

In conclusion, while "few" and "less" may sound similar and both refer to a smaller quantity, they have different meanings and are used differently in sentences. By understanding the differences between these two words, you can use them correctly in your writing and speech.