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:
The laboratory has lots of kerosene on hand.
Some of the processes in this assembly process could be automated.
This laboratory test requires some understanding of safety standards.
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 many factory owners who would refuse to use an automated storage and retrieval system.
Many people prefer to seek a second source for auxillary materials.
There aren't many airplane manufacturers who adequately control their labor cost per output unit.
A Little / Little
"A little' conveys a simple fact with noncount nouns.
Example:
This protective eyewear will get a little foggy in humid climates.
Tom has just a little energy left after scannig each bar code by hand.
'Little' expresses a sense of 'a lack of' something with noncount nouns.
Example:
Stanton Friedman says there is little hope that we'll replace our legacy system this year.
Peter says there is little change in the regulations for the bonded warehouse.
A Few / Few
'A few' conveys a simple fact with count nouns.
Example:
There are a few workers trained to use the lathe.
He told me there were a few accidents on the backhaul.
'Little' expresses a sense of 'a lack of' something with count nouns.
Example:
There are few safety procedures that can be ignored when using a bandsaw.
Strangely, he had few colors to choose from when he printed the bar chart in Siberia.