Fewer and Less

This distinction, between fewer and less, is an easy one, once the underlying principle is understood. Ms. Picky will give you a mnemonic device, but, first, the explanation:

Fewer
Fewer is used for individual objects or items that can be counted, e.g., marbles, ribbons, coins, cars, books.

Examples:
I have fewer books than I used to.
Elizabeth has fewer complaints than Gerard does.

Less
Less is used for objects or concepts that are a mass, rather than separate items, e.g., sugar, flour, cash, work, love, consideration.

Examples:

I have less love for algebra than for history. 

Alec uses less sugar in his crème brûlée than Daniel does.

Mnemonic Device:
Think of lemons: fewer lemons, less lemonade.


Next Week's Post: Quash and Squash