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fewer
Fewer (adjective) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology
IPA:

What does fewer mean?
A smaller number of items or people when compared to another group.
"Fewer people showed up to the party than we expected."
Detailed Meaning of Fewer
When something is described as "fewer," it means that there is a smaller amount of it when compared to a different item or group. For example, if there are 10 apples and 5 oranges, there are fewer oranges than apples. The term "fewer" is often used to compare quantities of countable items, such as people, objects, or animals. It is the opposite of "more," which is used to describe a larger quantity of something. "Fewer" is commonly used in discussions of statistics, sales, and demographics, where specific numbers and quantities are important. Overall, the term "fewer" refers to a smaller number of items or people, and it is used to compare quantities of countable objects.
Example Sentences for Fewer
1. There were fewer attendees at the morning session than at the afternoon one.
2. Fewer students opted for the advanced course compared to the basic one.
3. The smaller car had fewer features but better fuel efficiency.
4. She had fewer responsibilities in her previous job.
5. The new restaurant had fewer menu options than the old one.
6. There were fewer sunny days this month compared to last year.
Origin and Etymology of Fewer
The adjective 'fewer' is derived from the Old English word 'fēawa,' which means 'few' or 'not many.' In Old English, 'fēawa' was used to describe a limited or small number of items or people. Over time, as English evolved, 'fewer' emerged to specifically indicate a smaller number of items or individuals in comparison to another group or quantity. The use of 'fewer' in modern English emphasizes the contrast in quantity or number between two sets, with the term serving as a comparative adjective to express that one group has a smaller quantity than another. The etymology of 'fewer' reflects its historical connection to the concept of limited or reduced quantity, making it a valuable term for making comparisons based on numerical differences.
Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding
Find the correct meaning of the adjective fewer:
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More Usage Examples of Fewer
1. Fewer participants completed the marathon in the extreme weather.
2. He had fewer friends but deeper connections.
3. The smaller suitcase had fewer compartments for storage.
4. The older model had fewer technological advancements.
5. Fewer applicants met the qualifications for the position.
6. The remote village had fewer resources for healthcare.
7. The shorter route had fewer tolls but more traffic.
8. The revised edition had fewer errors than the original.
9. Fewer books were available in the library after the renovation.
10. The budget-friendly option had fewer amenities.
11. There were fewer job opportunities in the rural area.
12. The compact phone had fewer apps pre-installed.
13. Fewer voters turned out for the local election.
14. The simpler design had fewer intricate details.
15. Eating fewer carbs can help with weight loss.
16. We have fewer apples this year due to the bad weather.
17. She has been making fewer mistakes in her work recently.
18. The new law aims to reduce the number of cars on the road, resulting in fewer emissions.
19. Fewer students are attending in-person classes due to the pandemic.
20. Eating fewer processed foods can lead to better health.
21. The company has hired fewer employees this year to cut costs.
22. We need to use fewer plastic bags to protect the environment.
23. The new policy has led to fewer complaints from customers.
24. Fewer people are smoking these days due to increased awareness of health risks.
25. The store has fewer items in stock than usual due to supply chain issues.
Synonyms and Related Words for Fewer
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