few
Translation
few, not many
Examples
Few people understand the problem.
Few people understand the problem.
A few people are waiting outside.
A few people are waiting outside.
Very few of them can speak English.
Very few of them can speak English.
Grammar Patterns
((+ plural noun)) not many Few people came.
(a few (+ plural noun)) a small number of A few people came.
Similar Words
Synonyms: not many, hardly any; Antonyms: many. Contrast with 'a few' (some).
Etymology
From Old English 'fēawe'.
Memory Tips
'Few' is negative, like saying 'not enough'. 'A few' is positive, like 'some'. Think of 'a' as adding a little positivity.