Cool MateMeaning of Few
used with plural nouns and a plural verb to mean ‘a small number’, ‘some’
In simple words: Not many; a small number.
Few in a sentence
- We've had a few replies.
- I need a few things from the store.
- **Quite a few** people are going to arrive early.
- I try to visit my parents **every few weeks**.
- Few people understand the difference.
- There seem to be fewer tourists around this year.
- Very few students learn Latin now.
- The player with the fewest points wins.
How to use Few
Use 'few' when referring to countable nouns. It implies a lesser amount than expected. 'Few' is often used in negative contexts, while 'a few' has a more positive connotation.
Grammar pattern
few + countable noun
Memory hint
Think of 'few' as a small number—like few friends at a party.
Related words
Collocations with Few
- few people
- few options
- few hours
Synonyms for Few
- a couple
- a handful
- several
Common mistakes with Few
- 'Few' vs 'a few' confusion: 'few' means not many, while 'a few' is a positive way to say some.
- Using 'few' with uncountable nouns: 'few' only works with countable nouns.
- Misplacing 'few' in a sentence: ensure it's used before the noun it describes.
Few appears in
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Frequently asked questions about Few
What does Few mean?
Not many; a small number.
What is the definition of Few?
used with plural nouns and a plural verb to mean ‘a small number’, ‘some’
How do you use Few in a sentence?
We've had a few replies.
Can you give another example of Few?
I need a few things from the store.
What are synonyms for Few?
Common alternatives include a couple, a handful, several.
What is the opposite of Few?
Opposite meanings include many, lots.
What words go with Few?
It commonly pairs with few people, few options, few hours.
What are common mistakes when using Few?
'Few' vs 'a few' confusion: 'few' means not many, while 'a few' is a positive way to say some. Using 'few' with uncountable nouns: 'few' only works with countable nouns. Misplacing 'few' in a sentence: ensure it's used before the noun it describes.
How do you pronounce Few?
US: /["/fjuː/"]/, UK: /["/fjuː/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.
When should I use Few?
Use 'few' when referring to countable nouns. It implies a lesser amount than expected. 'Few' is often used in negative contexts, while 'a few' has a more positive connotation.
What CEFR level is Few?
"Few" is at A1 level on the CEFR scale.