Grammar: Quantifiers

Grammar Reference: Quantifiers

a) Read the examples. Which words do we use with countable/uncountable nouns? Which do we use in affirmative, in negative sentences, and in requests? Make sentences using them.

• We've got some juice. We haven't got much sugar. We haven't got many apples.
• There aren't any/are no apples.
• There are a lot of bananas in the fridge.
• Is there any milk?
• Can I have some crisps?
• I'll have a little/some cream with my cake.
• Let's buy a few/some peppers.

Explanation of Quantifiers:

• 'Much' and 'many' are used in negative sentences and questions. 'Much' is used with uncountable nouns (e.g., sugar, juice), and 'many' is used with countable nouns (e.g., apples, bananas).
• 'Any' is used in negative sentences and questions with both countable and uncountable nouns.
• 'Some' is used in affirmative sentences with both countable and uncountable nouns, and also in offers and requests.
• 'A lot of' is used in affirmative sentences with both countable and uncountable nouns.
• 'A little' is used with uncountable nouns in affirmative sentences to mean a small amount.
• 'A few' is used with countable nouns in affirmative sentences to mean a small number.
• 'Little' and 'few' (without 'a') usually have a negative meaning, implying not much or not many.

Examples of sentences using quantifiers:

• Affirmative (countable): There are a few students in the class.
• Affirmative (uncountable): I have some money.
• Negative (countable): There aren't many cars on the road.
• Negative (uncountable): I don't have much time.
• Question (countable): Do you have any questions?
• Question (uncountable): Is there any water left?
• Offer/Request: Would you like some tea? Can I have a few minutes?