The Grammar Doctor

fewer, less

" Fewer" refers to things that can be counted. " Less" refers to amount or degree as distinct from a series of individual items.

There were fewer benefits from the job and less opportunity.
There were fewer apples left and less of the apple pie.

You sometimes see a sign at a supermarket checkout stand, " Ten items or less."

When you see that sign, the Grammar Doctor hereby gives you permission to take out a red pen, cross out " less" and write in " fewer." The store manager will be grateful for the correction.


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