Less vs. Least

'Less' and 'least' are used a lot in English so it is important to know their differences. Let's dive right into it.

What Are Their Main Differences?

'Less' refers to a small amount, while '(the) least' refers to the smallest amount or number.
They are the superlative and comparative forms of the adjective little.

	comparative	superlative
little	less	more
many	the least	the most

Grammatical Functions

Both of these words can be used as:

Determiners (As determiners, they are used before* nouns.)
Pronouns* (As pronouns can be used without a noun or they are not immediately followed by a noun.)
Adverbs (As adverbs, they are used before adjectives or adverbs or even after* verbs to define them.)

Difference as Determiners

'Less' and 'the least are followed by a singular uncountable noun.

They waste less money than they did before.

I haven't the least idea what you are talking about.

Tip!

Some grammarians recommend using 'least' only with uncountable nouns. With plural nouns, they recommend 'the fewest'. However, other authorities disagree.

One of the least ~~points~~ was mine. → One of the fewest points was mine.

Difference as Pronouns

Both can be used without nouns after them as pronouns:

Most of us got £4 an hour, but some received even less.

The least you could do is give me her phone number.

Difference as Adverbs

They both can be used before adjectives in order to make a comparative and superlative form of that said adjective.

I was least concerned with it. (superlative)

I was less concerned with it. (comparative)

They can also be used after verbs to modify them.

Maybe he would worry less if he understood the situation. (comparative)

Maybe he would worry the least if he understood the situation. (superlative)

Comments

Little vs. Some

Both of the two words are quantifiers and they are misused a lot but if you know the meanings. It would make no confusion for you.

Less vs. Fewer

Since they are similar in their meanings. They cause problems for beginners because it is difficult for new learners to choose when and where to use them.

Less vs. Lesser

You might think they are the same or used interchangeably, but you're mistaken. We will discuss it in this lesson.

Much vs. Many

Much and many are both quantifiers and they are really easy to learn.

Much vs. More

'Much' and 'more' are two different words that are used in different conditions. Let us get to know them better.

Much vs. A Lot

Much and a lot are used interchangeably in spoken English, but in fact, there is a delicate difference.

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