We use these words as quantifiers that come at the start of noun phrases and they tell us something about quantity.
A lot of vs. Lots of
A lot of and lots of are used to express that there is a large quantity of something.
We use a lot of in positive sentences, negative sentences and questions. This expression can be used with countable or uncountable nouns.
Examples:
- There are a lot of dogs in their house. (Countable noun)- I have a lot of time to answer your questions. (Uncountable noun)
- I saw a lot of people waiting in the queue. (Countable noun)
- We did have a lot of fun, didn't we? (Uncountable noun)
Note: We use lots of in positive and negative sentences, however it is more informal. It can be used with countable or uncountable nouns, and occasionally in questions.
Examples:- We have lots of time to catch the plane, lets relax. (Uncountable noun)
- There are lots of people in the queue today. (Countable noun)
- Oh my, you have spent lots of money on clothes! (Uncountable noun)
- I have lots of questions. (Countable noun)
- She has a lot of money = She has lots of money
Much vs. Many
Much and Many are used to express that there is a large quantity of something.
They're also used in negative sentences and questions.
Many is used with countable nouns.
Much is used with uncountable nouns.
Examples:
- I don't have many CD's in my collection. (Countable noun)- They don't have much money to buy a present. (Uncountable noun)
- How many brothers do you have? (Countable noun)
- Is there much milk in the fridge? (Uncountable noun)
Note: We don't use Much and Many in positive sentences, we use a lot of or lots of.
WRONG: I have much money. (Incorrect because the sentence is positive/affirmative).
CORRECT: I have a lot of money.
Few vs. Little
We use Few and Little to suggest a small quantity.
Few is used with countable nouns.
Little is used with uncountable nouns.
Examples:
- There are only a few days left until Thanksgiving. (Countable noun)
- There is little hope of finding your wallet. (Uncountable noun)
Note: While Few and Little usually have positive meanings, very few and very little have negative meanings.
Examples:- He is sad because he has very few friends. (Countable noun)
- They have very little knowledge about education. (Uncountable noun)
