“half vs halve”를 이해하는 것은 영어에서 명확한 의사소통을 위해 매우 중요합니다. “Half”는 명사, 형용사, 부사로 사용할 수 있지만 “halve”는 동사로만 사용됩니다. 올바른 사용법을 배워보세요!
English language learners often get confused between "fewer" and "less" because both words are used to compare quantities, and the rules governing their usage can seem subtle. However, mastering when to use "fewer" vs. "less" is essential for clear and accurate communication.
Definition: "Fewer" is used to describe a smaller number of countable items.
Typical Usage: Use "fewer" when referring to things that can be counted individually, such as apples, books, or people.
Definition: "Less" is used to describe a smaller amount of uncountable items or abstract concepts.
Typical Usage: Use "less" for things that cannot be counted individually, such as sugar, water, or time.
"Fewer" is used with plural countable nouns while "less" is used with singular uncountable nouns. For example:
Understanding these synonyms can help you decide which word to use. For countable nouns, think of "not as many" (fewer). For uncountable nouns, think of "not as much" (less).
"Fewer" comes from the Old English word "feawe," meaning "not many."
"Less" originates from the Old English word "læs," meaning "a smaller amount."
Knowing these origins can help reinforce the usage rules: "fewer" for things you can count individually, "less" for things that form a collective whole or abstract concepts.
One common error is using "less" when "fewer" should be used. This typically happens because "less" is more commonly heard in everyday speech. For example:
Incorrect: "There are less options available."
Correct: "There are fewer options available."
To avoid this mistake, remember the rule: Can you count it? If so, use "fewer."
Correct Usage:
Incorrect Usage:
"The supermarket has less plastic bags available." (Countable noun "bags" requires "fewer.")
Correct Usage:
Incorrect Usage:
"This recipe requires fewer sugar." (Uncountable noun "sugar" requires "less.")
In professional settings, correctly using "fewer" and "less" can enhance your credibility and clarity. For example, writing "We had fewer delays in the project timeline" is more accurate than "We had less delays."
To remember the difference, you can use this mnemonic: Fewer is for Few things you can count. Less is for quantities that can't be counted individually.
Mini-exercise: Complete the following sentences:
There are a few exceptions where "less" is used with countable nouns, particularly in expressions involving time, money, and distance. For example:
In some regions, especially in informal speech, you might hear "less" used where "fewer" is formally correct. This evolving usage can be observed in many native speakers, but sticking to the traditional rules is advisable, especially in formal writing and communication.
Test your understanding with this brief quiz:
Understanding the difference between "fewer" and "less" is crucial for accurate and professional communication. Remember, if you can count it, use "fewer." If you can't, use "less." Happy learning!
“half vs halve”를 이해하는 것은 영어에서 명확한 의사소통을 위해 매우 중요합니다. “Half”는 명사, 형용사, 부사로 사용할 수 있지만 “halve”는 동사로만 사용됩니다. 올바른 사용법을 배워보세요!
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