Fewer Meaning and Definition
Fewer
Pronunciation
/ˈfuːər/
Part of Speech
Adjective, Noun
Definition
A few, a smaller number of something. A unit of measurement, a standard quantity, or a limited quantity of something.
Examples
- There are fewer people in the meeting today.
- Fewer customers have been visiting the store lately.
Etymology
The word “fewer” has its roots in Old English and Germanic languages, where it was used to describe a smaller number of something. It has undergone significant changes and evolution over the centuries to become the word we use today.
Usage Notes
“Fewer” is used to describe a smaller number of something that can be counted, such as objects, people, or animals. It can also be used to describe a specific quantity or standard amount. On the other hand, “less” is used to describe a smaller amount of something that cannot be counted, such as liquid or gas.
Cultural References
Fewer has been used in various contexts in popular culture, including literature, music, and film. For example, in the song “Blackbird” by The Beatles, the lyrics mention “fewer broken wings.”
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- Less is more (idiom) – meaning that having fewer things is often better or more effective.
- Fewer strings to worry about (phrase) – meaning that having fewer responsibilities or things to consider can be less stressful.
Related Words or Phrases
- Less
- Few
- Several
Collocations
- Fewer and less together
- Fewer words, fewer mistakes
- A few/fewer people
Frequency of Use
Fewer is a commonly used word in modern language, especially in contexts where a smaller number of something is being described. However, its usage may vary depending on the context, culture, and region.
Common Misspellings
- Fewer – Firer
- Fewer – Fuler
- Fewer – Fumer