Common Mistakes in English A Little vs. a Few

The quantifiers a little, little, a few, and few are often used interchangeably in English. However, there is a difference based on whether the object specified is countable or uncountable. The use of the indefinite article a  also changes the meaning of these important words. A Little - A Few / Little - Few A little and little refer to non-count nouns, and are  used with the singular form: Examples: Theres little wine left in the bottle.Ive put a little sugar into your coffee. A few and few refer to count nouns, and are used with the plural form: Examples: There are a few students in that classroom.He says few applicants have presented themselves. A little and a few convey a positive meaning. Examples: Ive got a little wine left, would you like some?Theyve got a few positions open. Little and few convey a negative meaning. Examples: Hes got little money left.I have few friends in Chicago.