Definition

A smaller number of people or things compared to another group.

Example

There are fewer apples in this basket than in the other one.

Conversation

I noticed there are fewer people at the park today.

Yeah, it seems like everyone is busy with their own plans.

I actually prefer it this way, more space to relax.

Exactly! It's nice to enjoy some quiet time.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

The word 'fewer' originates from Old English 'fēower' (meaning four) and is related to the comparative form of 'few'. It indicates a smaller number of countable items compared to another quantity.

Memory Tip

Think of 'few' as a small number, and 'fewer' means an even smaller number when comparing two amounts.

Visually Confused Words