How Much, How Many
Expressions for Use with Count and Noncount Nouns
These expressions are used with noncount nouns. The expressions are arranged in order from most to least.
all
most
much, lots of, a lot of
some
a little, not much, little
not...any, no, none
Example:
Developing supervisory skills requires a lot of study.
We'll have a little time on Friday to discuss your revenue streams.
Washing stains out of uniforms involves many soaps and bleaches.
These expressions are used with count nouns. The expressions are arranged in order from most to least.
every, all
most
many, lots of, a lot of
several
some
not many, only a few, few
not...any, no, none
Example:
There aren't a lot of Texans requiring accommodations.
Many hotel managers love their work.
Lots of housekeepers are underpaid.
A Little / Little
"A little' conveys a simple fact with noncount nouns.
Example:
Tom has a little time to shop for fresh vegetables every day.
There is a little difference in room rates.
'Little' expresses a sense of 'a lack of' something with noncount nouns.
Example:
The wait person has little time before his shift begins.
Peter says there is little hope for an uptick in travel trends.
A Few / Few
'A few' conveys a simple fact with count nouns.
Example:
The tablecloth had a few wine stains.
He told me there were a few restaurateurs in his franchise.
'Little' expresses a sense of 'a lack of' something with count nouns.
Example:
"Unfortunately, there are few storage options available for fresh produce."
The airline had few options other than asking for a bailout.