Adjectives of Quantity in English: Meanings and Example

Adjectives of quantity are used in English to express general or approximate amounts rather than exact numbers.

Adjectives of Quantity

Adjectives of quantity are words used to show how much of something there is without giving an exact number. They commonly describe amounts that are uncertain, estimated, or general.

These adjectives are especially useful when exact figures are unnecessary or unknown. For example, instead of saying an exact number, we often say some people, much time, or a lot of work.

Adjectives of Quantity by Noun Type

To use adjectives of quantity correctly, it is important to know whether the noun is countable or uncountable.

Used with Countable Nouns (Plural)

many
few
a few
several
numerous
a large number of

Many students attended the lecture.
Only a few chairs were left.

Used with Uncountable Nouns

much
little
a little
a bit of
a great deal of
a large amount of

There is little time left.
She showed a great deal of patience.

Used with Both Countable and Uncountable Nouns

some
any
a lot of
plenty of
enough
all
most

We have enough chairs for everyone.
She has plenty of experience.

Common Adjectives of Quantity

some
any
many
much
few
a few
little
a little
several
numerous
plenty of
a lot of
enough
all
most
no

Notes:

Few and little suggest an insufficient or negative amount.
A few and a little suggest a small but sufficient amount.
Do not use many with uncountable nouns or much with plural countable nouns.

Few people understood the problem.
A few people offered helpful solutions.