Understanding the Adjective "Few"
The adjective "few" is categorized as an adjective of quantity.
Adjective of Quantity vs. Adjective of Number
- Adjective of Quantity:
- Refers to the amount or degree of something.
- Indicates an indefinite number or an unspecified quantity.
- Examples include words like "some," "much," "little," and "few."
- Adjective of Number:
- Specifically denotes a precise count of items.
- Indicates a definite number.
- Examples include words like "one," "two," "three," and so on.
Why "Few" is an Adjective of Quantity
- "Few" signifies a limited, but unspecified, number of items.
- It suggests a smaller amount without providing an exact figure.
- For instance, when saying "few students attended," it conveys that not many students came, but the exact number is unclear.
Examples to Illustrate
- Few:
- "There are few apples left in the basket." (Indefinite quantity)
- Number:
- "There are three apples on the table." (Definite number)
In summary, "few" is an adjective of quantity because it describes an unspecified, limited number of items, rather than providing a precise count. Understanding this distinction helps in using adjectives correctly in sentences.