2. We don’t usually use much / many in affirmative sentences; we use a lot of instead.
I have a lot of work to do.
NOT l have much work to do.
In more formal situations, we sometimes use much / many in affirmative sentences,
especially as the subject.
Many/A lot of others think that travel broadens the mind.
3. We usually use some in affirmative sentences and any in negatives and questions with
plural and uncountable nouns.
◦ Some people think...
◦ There isn't any obvious possibility...
◦ Is there any possibility that... ?
We use any in affirmative sentences to mean ‘it doesn’t matter which one‘ or 'if
something exists’:
◦ We can describe any machine as ‘intelligent 'if...
◦ Any computer that can think like us...
We can use some with singular countable nouns, where it means' don’t know which
one’. In informal situations, we can add... or other.
◦ There was some man {or other) looking for you earlier.
4. We use a few / a little to talk about small quantities, and few/ little to emphasise that
the amount is less than you might expect, especially with very.
I'll try to help you. I have a little time.
I'm sorry -I can't help. I have very little time.
We use more / most, fewer / fewest and less / least to compare quantities.
I made fewer mistakes than last time.
5. In informal situations, we can use a couple / bit of and plenty / lots of. Loads of / Tons of
are very informal.
In formal situations, we can use a good deal of with uncountable nouns and a large /
small number of with plural countable nouns.
A good deal of progress has been made.
6. Expressing quantity
with count and uncount
nouns
Spoken/informal English
with uncount nouns only
with count nouns only
plenty of time/books
lots of luck/women
a lot of pasta/brands
Written/more formal English
a great deal of effort
much influence
a large number of nations
many members
7. To combine quantifiers with other determiners or pronouns we usually use of. Use
none instead of no.
Each of these scientists has played an important role...
Much of the learning a child does...
None of my friends live near me. NOT No-of-my-friends...
We use too + much / many / few / little to talk about excessive quantities.
◦ It would cost too much money to make.
9. Common Sentences
She wants a lot of money but her husband doesn't have any.
Didn't you need many workers while you were building this house?
Much money will be spent on food next century.
I have seen few camels so far.
There is only a little butter in the fridge.
I have spent a great deal of time thinking of the design.
Despite the instructions, a large number of people didn’t know what to do.
