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
I haven't
Tip!
Some grammarians recommend using 'least' only with uncountable nouns. With plural nouns, they recommend 'the fewest'. However, other authorities disagree.
One of the points was mine. → One of the
Difference as Pronouns
Both can be used without nouns after them as pronouns:
Most of us got £4 an hour, but some received even
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
I was
They can also be used after verbs to modify them.
Maybe he would worry
Maybe he would worry