The difference between less and fewer (grammar lesson)


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Use 'less' when referring to a single item. Use 'fewer' when referring to more than one item.

Writers often misuse the words 'less' and 'fewer'. The word 'less' should be used for a single item (e.g., less time, less space); whereas, 'fewer' should be used when there is more than one item (e.g., fewer mice, fewer omissions).

Examples:

There is less cheese on this plate.

(cheese - singular)

There are fewer pieces of cheese on this plate.

(pieces - plural)

There are less pigeons in Trafalgar Square than there used to be.

(should be fewer pigeons)

In the future, there will be less coins in circulation.

(should be fewer coins)

Fewer people will vote in the forthcoming elections.

Select the correct version:

ADOPT THE RULING!

Many people consider this ruling outdated. It is certainly not well observed by some large reputable companies. For example:

less bags (fewer bags )
Asda (Wall*Mart) poster

less napkins (fewer napkins )
Starbucks

less emissions (fewer emissions )
Volvo

Grammar Monster advises that you play it safe and adopt the ruling. Using 'less' incorrectly may irk your readers; whereas, using 'fewer' correctly will showcase your grammar skills.

Are the adverts above wrong? Grammar Monster decides in Grammar Court.