| The word less is confused in more than one way. Please note that there are multiple groups on this page. |
| less |
used with quantities that cannot be counted |
| fewer |
used with nouns that can be counted |
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Examples |
Fewer students are signing up for courses in math and science.
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| They prefer courses requiring less study time.
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| less |
not as much in quantity (less and a singular noun) |
| fewer |
not as much in number (fewer and a plural noun) |
| fewest |
the smallest in number (fewest and a plural noun) |
| least |
the smallest in quantity (least and a singular noun) |
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Examples |
There is less opportunity to study Latin in public schools today than in the past.
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| There are fewer students signed up for Latin class this term.
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| This Latin class has the least chance of remaining part of the curriculum.
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| The fewest number of students signed up for Latin class this year.
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| less |
smaller in amount or extent; lower in rank |
| lesser |
not great in value, quantity, or size |
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Examples |
I put less sugar in the tea.
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| I was moved to a less prominent position.
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| Joyce Kilmer is considered one of the lesser poets.
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| Joyce Kilmer is a lesser-known poet.
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