fewer - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
fewer Word Meanings
- not many in number
- a small amount
- used to indicate a limited quantity
fewer Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
fewer Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/fjuː/
US
/fjuː/
fewer Word Etymology
Root: few (Old English 'fēa'). Historical Origin: Old English → Modern English. Memory Image: Imagine a tiny handful of grains in your palm, symbolizing a limited but precious quantity.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I reach for a row of cards. I move them one by one, watching how many stay in a neat little pile. I push back a couple, adjust the spacing, and hold the rest steady. In the end, I keep a few—just enough to count without crowding.
Real Context
Few means not many in number and is used with plural count nouns to express a small amount that is often insufficient. It carries a negative or restrictive nuance, contrasted with a positive 'a few' which suggests some, and possibly enough. It cannot be used with uncountable nouns (for those we use little). A memory image is a tiny handful in the palm, symbolizing scarcity. In sentences you may hear 'There are few options,' 'We have few opportunities,' or 'Few people understood,' often accompanied by negation, emphasis, or context showing limitation.
Usage Reminders
- Few is used with plural count nouns only
- Not with uncountable nouns
- Neg tone vs a few
- Usually after 'there are' or 'we have'
- Can pair with 'of' in expressions like 'few of us'
- Be mindful of formal vs casual tone
Common Misconceptions
- It can describe countable mass you just misread as uncountable
- It means 'some' in all contexts
- It is used with singular nouns
- It is interchangeable with 'a few' in all situations
- It never appears with negation or emphasis
Thinking Differences
For English learners, few signals scarcity and is used with plural count nouns; it contrasts with a few, which is positive. Some learners misplace it with uncountables or treat it as broadly negative without context.
Learning Tips
- Remember few is for negative scarcity with plural nouns
- Pair with 'there are' or 'we have' to state scarcity
- Contrast with 'a few' to express a positive quantity
- Don’t use with uncountable nouns like water or sand
- Use 'few of' when referring to a subset of a group
- Practice with varied contexts (jobs, opportunities, people)
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'fewer'?
A.More in quantity
B.Less in quantity
C.Tall in height
D.Wide in width
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence below uses the word 'fewer' correctly?
A.She ate fewer apples than her friend.
B.She drank fewer water than her friend.
C.She had fewer sleep than her friend.
D.She wore fewer clothes than her friend.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'fewer'?
A.Plentiful
B.Scarce
C.Abundant
D.Sufficient
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'fewer'?
A.Ample
B.Numerous
C.Many
D.Adequate
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example of a real-life scenario of 'fewer'?
A.She had fewer friends after moving to a new city.
B.She had more friends after moving to a new city.
C.She had plenty of friends after moving to a new city.
D.She had countless friends after moving to a new city.
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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