The word quantities means the amount or number of something. It is used to describe how much or how many of something there is.
Countable vs. Uncountable
- Countable nouns are things you can count (e.g., apples, books).
- Uncountable nouns are things you cannot count individually (e.g., water, rice).
Common Quantity Words
These words help describe amounts for both countable and uncountable nouns.
Examples
For Countable Nouns
- I have several apples.
- There are many books on the shelf.
- She bought a few oranges.
There are ___ books on the shelf.
many
'Many' is used to describe a large number of countable items, such as books.
For Uncountable Nouns
- I need some water.
- There is much sugar in the recipe.
- Can you give me a little milk?
Summary
- Use many, few, and several with countable nouns.
- Use much, little, and some with uncountable nouns.
- A lot of and some can be used with both countable and uncountable nouns.
Examples
Countable Nouns (e.g., apples)
- many apples
- few apples
- several apples
- a couple of apples
- a dozen apples
- two apples
- five apples
- dozens of apples
- a few apples
- a lot of apples
Uncountable Nouns (e.g., water)
- much water
- little water
- some water
- a little water
- a bit of water
- a drop of water
- plenty of water
- enough water
- too much water
- too little water
Can I have ___ milk, please?
a little
'A little' is used with uncountable nouns to mean a small amount.
Last updated: Wed Jun 18, 2025
