Little vs Few: What Is the Difference?
Quick Answer
"Little" = uncountable nouns | "Few" = countable nouns
Both mean "not much/not many" and have a negative connotation. Add "a" for positive meaning: "a little" / "a few."
Explanation
LITTLE (Uncountable)
- little time (not enough)
- little money
- little hope
- a little water (some, positive)
FEW (Countable)
- few friends (not enough)
- few options
- few chances
- a few books (some, positive)
Important Nuance:
- little/few (without "a") = negative (not enough)
- a little/a few (with "a") = positive (some, enough)
Examples
✔I have few friends in this city. (negative - not many)
✔I have a few friends here. (positive - some)
✔There's little hope of success. (negative)
✔There's a little hope left. (positive - some)
✘I have few money. (money is uncountable)
Comparison Table
| Meaning | Countable | Uncountable |
|---|---|---|
| Negative (not enough) | few | little |
| Positive (some) | a few | a little |
Common Mistake
Incorrect: I have few time to finish this project.
Correct: I have little time to finish this project.
Practice
Choose the correct word:
"There's _____ we can do about the situation." (little/few)