"gave 2 fewer points" vs "gave 2 points less"

Question

"gave 2 fewer points" vs "gave 2 points less"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Gave 2 points less' is commonly used when talking about quantities that are not countable, while 'gave 2 fewer points' is used when referring to countable items. It's important to match the phrase with the type of item being discussed.

Last Updated: March 31, 2024

This phrase is used when talking about countable items or quantities. For example, 'He gave 2 fewer points than the other team.'

Examples:

She received 2 fewer apples than her friend.
He has 2 fewer pencils than his sister.
The team scored 2 fewer goals than last season.
I have 2 fewer books than I had last year.
There are 2 fewer students in the class today.

Alternatives:

gave a smaller number of points
gave less points
gave a reduced quantity of points
gave a diminished number of points
gave a lesser amount of points

This phrase is used when talking about non-countable items or quantities. For example, 'He gave 2 points less than the required amount.'

Examples:

She bought 2 pounds less of flour than she needed.
The recipe calls for 2 cups less sugar than I usually use.
He drank 2 glasses less water today.
The car weighs 2 kilograms less than the previous model.
I have 2 dollars less than I thought.

Alternatives:

gave a smaller amount of points
gave fewer points
gave a reduced number of points
gave a diminished amount of points
gave a lesser quantity of points

Answer 1

gave 2 fewer points

This phrase is correct when referring to countable items.

Answer 2

gave 2 points less

This phrase is correct when referring to quantities that are not countable.

"gave 2 fewer points" vs "gave 2 points less"

gave 2 fewer points

gave 2 points less

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