Difference Between Less and Fewer

The words "less" and "fewer" are often used interchangeably in general conversation. However, if we examine them in depth, we will see subtle differences that set them apart. It is also easy to confuse people with the word "less" and "fewer". These two words tend to denote the opposite of the comparative adjective more. However, the dilemma between less vs few can be solved with some simple hacks. Less and fewer can be solved with countable and uncountable nouns with the intended sentence.

Less

Attach the term "less" with uncountable nouns. Uncountable nouns are those nouns that are not possible to count individually. For example, Ram seems to be energetically low.

Fewer

Those nouns that can be counted individually are called countable nouns. It prefers to use the term "fewer" with the plural countable nouns. For example, there are fewer apples left in the basket, or Sam has fewer friends in this town.

Comparisons

The terms "less" or "fewer" are used in comparative constructions to suggest a small amount or number in comparison to something else. For example, she has less money than her sister, or There are fewer cars on the road at night.

The Difference Between Less and Fewer

Here's a breakdown of each sentence:

1. "Cookie Monster was told to eat fewer cookies."
   
   • "Fewer" is used because "cookies" is a countable noun. You can count individual cookies.
2. "Could you give Cookie Monster less milk next time?"
3. "Molly has been drinking less water than she should on this dry day."
   
   • "Less" is used with "water" because it's an uncountable noun. Water is measured in quantity, not individual units.
4. "David makes fewer grammatical mistakes than the average person."
   
   • "Fewer" is used with "mistakes" because it's countable. You can count individual grammatical mistakes.
5. "My new furniture leaves me with less space for yoga practice."
   
   • "Less" is used with "space" because it's an uncountable noun. Space is measured in quantity, not individual units.
6. "As the days passed, the rose had fewer petals left on it."
   
   • "Fewer" is used with "petals" because it's countable. You can count individual rose petals.

Less and Fewer with Money

While we can count money in practice, it is perceived as a bulk quantity rather than an aggregate of individual currency units. So, in the end, we tend to use 'less' rather than 'fewer' when referring to money.

For example:

• Rebecca has less than twenty dollars left in her checking account.

It wouldn't be grammatically incorrect to say, 'Rebecca has fewer than twenty dollars left,' but it might sound awkward and unexpected to the reader."

"While time can be counted in seconds, minutes, hours, and beyond, it is customary to use 'less' when referring to time as a bulk quantity, regardless of its countable nature.

For example:

• Ethan has been at his job for less than five years.
• I wish I could spend less time on household chores.

However, depending on the specificity of the reference to time, using 'fewer' may be more appropriate:

• I wish I could spend fewer hours on household chores and more time watching television.

When to Use "Less" and "Fewer."

Remember these points while using these two terms: "Less" and "Fewer". Here are the following that you should not forget:

• "Less"
  
  • It is preferable to use "less" when you indicate a meager quantity or degree that cannot be counted individually.
  • The above points can be illustrated with the help of the example: There is less alcohol in the glass, or She has less time to complete the given assignment.
• "Fewer"
  
  • Prefer to use "fewer" when you refer to a small number of things or individuals.
  • The above point can be illustrated with the following example: Ram has fewer airplanes than his friend.

Differences Table

There are minute but significant differences between them. Although both terms may appear to be the same, they are distinct and widely used depending on the context. These differences give a proper understanding of these two terms and would help eliminate any confusion that might exist in the reader's mind. These differences have been arranged in tabular form. Here are the differences given below.

Conclusion

It is important to master the differences between less and fewer to eliminate confusion and bolster your communication skills in English. This confusion should not remain in the minds, as it creates unnecessary hurdles in communication. Generally, less goes with uncountable nouns to indicate a smaller amount or degree, while "fewer" goes with countable nouns to indicate a smaller number of individual items.

By following these rules, readers, writers, and columnists can ensure clarity, precision, and relativity in their thoughts and expressions. A deep understanding of when to use "less" and "fewer" helps in polishing your writing skills and conveying your intended message effortlessly. So, while forming documents and engaging in day-to-day conversations, using these differences boosts your language proficiency and makes your communication effective. The above-listed differences will help you in eliminating doubts that might have there in your head.