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FEWER meaning and definition

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What Does "Fewer" Mean? A Guide to Mastering the Less-Common Word

When it comes to grammar and vocabulary, there are many nuances that can trip us up. One such word is "fewer," which often confuses even the most linguistically inclined individuals. So, what does "fewer" mean, exactly?

To start, let's define the difference between "few" and "fewer." Simply put, "few" refers to a small number of things that are not countable or cannot be counted individually. For example:

  • I have few friends from my hometown.
  • The company has few employees.

On the other hand, "fewer" is used when referring to a specific, countable number of things. This can include items, people, or even animals. Here's where it gets tricky: if you're talking about plural nouns that can be counted individually (like apples, dogs, or books), use "fewer." If not, stick with "few."

Here are some examples to illustrate the difference:

  • I have fewer than five books on my nightstand.
  • There are few cars on the road during rush hour.

To make it even clearer, consider this scenario: Imagine you're at a bakery and there are only three types of cakes available. You might say, "I have fewer options for dessert than usual." In this case, "fewer" is used because you can count the specific types of cakes (three).

Conversely, if you say, "I have few friends who like baking," it's incorrect to use "fewer" because "friends" is a plural noun that cannot be counted individually. Instead, stick with "few."

Why does this distinction matter? Using "fewer" in situations where "few" should be used can make your writing or speech sound less polished and even confuse your audience. On the flip side, mastering the correct usage of "fewer" can elevate your communication skills and demonstrate a keen attention to detail.

In conclusion, understanding what "fewer" means is crucial for effective expression in both written and spoken language. By grasping the fundamental difference between "few" and "fewer," you'll be well on your way to becoming a master of linguistic nuance. So next time you're faced with a sentence that seems like it's asking too much, remember: fewer is for countable things, and few is for everything else.

References

  • Merriam-Webster Dictionary
  • Grammar Girl Podcast
  • Chicago Manual of Style

Word Choice Worksheet

Test your understanding of "few" and "fewer" with this interactive worksheet:

  1. I have _______________________ time to finish my project. a) few b) fewer

Answer: a) few (because "time" is not countable)

  1. The company has _______________________ employees than last year. a) few b) fewer

Answer: b) fewer (because you can count the specific number of employees)

Feel free to share your answers in the comments below!

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