fewer

American  

[fyoo-er] / ˈfyu ər /

adjective

1. of a smaller number.

   fewer words and more action.

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pronoun

1. (used with a plural verb) a smaller number.

   Fewer have come than we hoped.

Commonly Confused

See less.

Etymology

Origin of fewer

Middle English feue, feawe. fewe fewere, Old English fēawera, genitive plural of fēawa few; see -er ⁴ ( def. )

Example Sentences

There are clear benefits to using recycled plastic: Fewer new plastics are introduced into the environment and it reduces the energy needed to make new products, thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

From Los Angeles Times • May 1, 2026

Fewer than a third of applicants are approved, and the process often takes years.

From Salon • Apr. 29, 2026

Fewer prior authorizations and a smoother pathway to care were reasons consumers preferred traditional Medicare.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 27, 2026

Fewer people would drive on the highway if we didn’t have cops to enforce the driving laws, if we didn’t have traffic lights and speed limits.

From Barron's • Apr. 18, 2026

Fewer cars roar by, and it’s easier to focus on conversation.

From "Muffled" by Jennifer Gennari