Learn English Grammar, Vocabulary
Practical English Usage, Writing
Grammar terms and Speaking

Reference Desk
Home
English Grammar
Practical English Usage
English Grammar Terms
English Writing
English Vocabulary
English Speaking
TOEFL
IELTS

Site Info
About
Recommended ESL Links
Link to Us
Site Map
Terms of Use
Advertise with Us

 

 

The least and the fewest

The least means the smallest or lowest quantity or degree. It is the superlative of little. It is used before uncountable nouns.

  • He went up the steps without showing the least anxiety.
  • She had not the least idea of what was going on.

Before plural abstract nouns we can use the least of.

  • 'I think she is really upset with you.' 'That is the least of my worries.'

The fewest is the superlative of few. It is used before plural nouns.

Less and Fewer

Less is the comparative of little. It is used before uncountable nouns. Fewer is the comparative of few. It is used before plural nouns.

  • New cars tend to cause less air pollution.
  • He earns less money than his wife.
  • I have got fewer problems than I used to have.

Note that in an informal style less is quite common before plural nouns.

Search the Dictionary of Practical English Usage

A|B|C|D|E|F|G|H|I|J|K|L|M|N|O|P|Q|R|S|T|U|V|W|X|Y|Z
Show Full Index

Google