A few and a little

Use a few with plural countable nouns and a little with uncountable nouns.

When do we use it?

Talk about small positive quantities with common nouns.

Form

A few friends; a little milk.

• a few minutes
• a little sugar
• a few questions
• a little help

Key contrast

Look for the subject, noun type, sentence form and time expression before choosing.

Common mistakes

• a little books → a few books
• a few water → a little water

Remember

Use a few with plural countable nouns and a little with uncountable nouns.

Quick check

• Read the complete sentence.
• Find the grammar clue.
• Choose the form that fits both meaning and structure.