The words 'few', 'a few', 'little' and 'a little' are quantifiers and often come before a noun. The meaning of 'a few' and 'a little' is some or a small number or amount.
However, 'few' and 'little' mean not many/almost none or not much/almost nothing, respectively. Remember to use 'few'/'a few' with plural countable nouns and 'little'/'a little' with uncountable nouns.
"I have little time to study English."
Examples with the meaning 'not many'/much':
- Bob had little time to see his friends.
- Polly has little money to spend on books.
- Paul had few moments alone at work.
- I had few friends growing up.
Example with the meaning 'some'/'a small number or amount':
- I have a little time just now, let's go over your homework.
- We have a little money, let's go out for dinner
- The students had a few days to revise for the exam.
- She spent a few minutes every morning doing yoga.
Listen to a few examples for more practice.
Now answer a few questions if you have a little time!
Is it 'few', 'a few', 'little' or 'a little'?
- Jamie wasn't happy about the situation but he had _______ choice.
little
- _____ cities are as beautiful as Edinburgh.
Few
- Lindsay began to tell us ______ about her life in Scotland.
a little
- Don't take all the chocolates Alex! Just take _____.
a few
