Fewer and less follow the exact same countable vs uncountable rule as amount and number, and it is one of the most commonly broken grammar rules in English, even in store signs.
Fewer is used with countable nouns, things you can count individually.
fewer full definition →
Less is used with uncountable nouns, things measured rather than counted.
less full definition →
| fewer | less | |
|---|---|---|
| Used with | Countable nouns: mistakes, cars, people | Uncountable nouns: time, sugar, money |
| Common error | "10 items or less" is technically incorrect | should read "10 items or fewer" |
| Simple test | Can you count them one by one? | Is it measured, not counted? |
Fewer items, less stuff. If you can count them one by one, use fewer. If you would measure it instead, use less.
Save both words to GoVocab and review them until they stick.
Download on the App Store