Definition / Explanation
These expressions talk about a small amount or a small number. A few and a little usually mean "some" and sound more positive. Few and little often mean "not enough" and sound more negative. A few is used with countable plural nouns, and a little is used with uncountable nouns. A bit of is another common way to talk about a small amount, especially in spoken English.
Key Rules
- Use few / a few with plural countable nouns: a few books.
- Use little / a little with uncountable nouns: a little milk.
- Few / little often mean “not enough” or “almost none.”
- A few / a little mean “some” and sound more positive.
- Use a bit of with uncountable nouns in informal English: a bit of sugar, a bit of time.
Examples
- I have a few ideas.
- There is little milk left.
- We have a little time before the bus comes.
- He has few friends in this town.
- Can I have a bit of water?
Common Mistakes
- ❌ I have few money. -> ✅ I have little money.
- ❌ There are a little books on the table. -> ✅ There are a few books on the table.
- ❌ We have few time. -> ✅ We have little time.
Tips
- Compare the feeling: few/little = almost none; a few/a little = enough for now.