Common English Mistakes English

(Fewer vs Less)

Generally, fewer is used when the number of things is counted. Less is used when the number is measured (“less trouble” or “less time”).

Less and fewer are comparative words. Less is the comparative form of little. Fewer is the comparative form of few.

Fewer is used to refer to numbers among things that are counted.

Fewer means “not as many.” We use fewer with countable nouns like dogs.

Less means “not as much.” We use less with uncountable nouns like water.

Examples:

Water has fewer calories than milk.

Pamela was advised to eat fewer sweets .

The doctor advised the boy to drink less soda to lose weight.

Ramu has fewer cavities in his teeth as compared to his brother.

The children made less noise when the teacher was inside.

Fewer vs Less

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