Confusion Between Fewer and Less

The confusion between "fewer" and "less" is a common one, but they have distinct uses based on countable and uncountable nouns.

"Fewer" is used when referring to countable nouns, which are objects or entities that can be counted individually. It implies a smaller number or quantity. For example:

·         "I have fewer books than you." (Countable noun: books)

"Less" is used when referring to uncountable nouns, which are substances or concepts that cannot be counted individually. It implies a smaller amount or degree. For example:

·         "There is less sugar in this recipe." (Uncountable noun: sugar)

Here are a few more examples to clarify the usage:

·         "He ate fewer cookies than his sister." (Countable noun: cookies)

·         "She has less experience in this field." (Uncountable noun: experience)

·         "We need to buy fewer chairs for the conference room." (Countable noun: chairs)

·         "There is less water in the reservoir after the drought." (Uncountable noun: water)

Remember that "fewer" refers to countable nouns, while "less" refers to uncountable nouns. If you can count the items individually, use "fewer." If you cannot count the items individually, use "less."