"Fewer" and "less" are two words that are often used interchangeably, but they actually have distinct meanings and should be used correctly in order to convey the intended meaning. Understanding the difference between these two words can help improve your writing and speaking skills.
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| The difference between fewer and less |
The word "fewer" is used when referring to a number of individual countable items or objects.
For example, "I have fewer books than my sister," or "The store has fewer apples than it did yesterday." In both of these cases, "fewer" is used because books and apples are countable items that can be quantified.
On the other hand, "less" is used when referring to a quantity of something that is not easily countable or measurable.
For example, "I need less sugar in my coffee," or "The weather today is less hot than yesterday." In both of these cases, "less" is used because sugar and hot weather are not easily countable or measurable.
It is important to note that "less" can also be used with countable items when referring to a quantity or amount of something that is considered as a whole.
For example, "I have less time to complete the task," or "There are less than 10 people in the room." In these cases, "less" is used because the time or people are being considered as a whole, rather than as individual countable items.
Another thing to keep in mind is that "fewer" is often used with a plural noun, while "less" is often used with a singular noun.
For example, "There are fewer cars on the road today," or "There is less traffic on the road today."
In summary, "fewer" is used when referring to a number of individual countable items, while "less" is used when referring to a quantity or amount of something that is not easily countable or measurable, or when referring to a quantity of something that is considered as a whole. By using "fewer" and "less" correctly, you can avoid confusing the reader or listener and communicate more effectively in English.
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