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1. Countable and
uncountable |
To use the expressions of quantity
correctly,
you need to understand the difference between countable and
uncountable nouns.
We can say: three cups, two girls, ten pounds: we can count
them.
We cannot say: two waters, three musics, one money: we cannot
count them. |
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| 2.
A few - a little |
A few is used with countable nouns:
- There are a few biscuits in the tin.
- My bus goes in a few minutes |
A little is used with uncountable nouns:
- There's a little whisky left. Help
yourself.
- There is a little sunshine. |
| |
| 3.
Few and little with(out) a |
WITH A the meaning is positive:
- He spoke a little English,
so we could talk to him.
- A few customers have come into the shop,
it has been quite busy. |
WITHOUT A the meaning is negative:
- He spoke
little English,
it was difficult to talk to him.
- Few customers have come into the shop,
it has been quiet. |