fewer和less的区别和用法（Fewer vs Less Understanding the Differences and How to Use Them Properly

Fewer vs. Less: Understanding the Differences and How to Use Them Properly

What is \"Fewer\"?

Have you ever heard the phrase \"10 items or fewer\" in the grocery store? This is because \"fewer\" is used to refer to countable objects. For example, you would say \"I have fewer dollars than you\" instead of \"I have less dollars than you.\" This is because dollars can be counted - unlike, say, water or air (which we will get to in a minute).

It is important to note that \"fewer\" can only be used with countable nouns, meaning those that can specifically be counted in numbers. For instance, if you are talking about something that is not countable, like water or air, you would use \"less\" instead.

What is \"Less\"?

As mentioned, \"less\" is used to refer to something that is not countable or cannot be measured in specific units. Examples of such items include liquid, gas, mass, or general concepts like time, energy, or information. You would say, \"I need less water in my cup\" or \"I have less time to complete the project\" instead of \"fewer water\" or \"fewer time.\"

It is important to recognize when to use \"less\" in comparison to \"fewer\" when dealing with mixed nouns. For instance, if you need to refer to objects that are both countable and not, choose the appropriate wording to avoid confusion. One example could be, \"There are fewer animals in the zoo, and less space for them to roam.\" Here, animals can be counted, hence the use of \"fewer,\" while space cannot be counted, hence the use of \"less.\"

Exception to the Rule

There is one exception to the rule of using \"less\" and \"fewer,\" and that is time. Specifically, time can be grammatically incorrect in official English. Many people often use \"less\" time; however, according to most grammar experts, the correct phrasing should be \"fewer hours\" or \"less work,\" but not \"less time.\"

To clarify, \"fewer hours\" refers to a direct count of the number of hours spent working, whereas \"less work\" refers to the general intensity or amount of work. In general, it is better to use \"fewer\" and \"less\" appropriately and clearly.

Conclusion

Using \"fewer\" and \"less\" correctly is an essential aspect of mastering the English language. To summarize, use \"fewer\" for countable things like people or objects, while using \"less\" for concepts and uncountable nouns like time or water. Avoid using \"less\" when referring to time, and remember to use the appropriate phrasing for mixed nouns. With these tips in mind, you will be well on your way to speaking and writing English with precision and accuracy.