there are only a handful vs there is only a handful

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'There are only a handful' is used when referring to a plural noun, while 'There is only a handful' is used when referring to a singular noun. The choice between 'are' and 'is' depends on the number of the noun being described.

Last updated: March 15, 2024 • 2777 views

This phrase is correct when referring to a plural noun.

"there are only a handful"

This phrase is used when you want to emphasize that there are very few of something. 'Are' is used because 'handful' is a plural noun.

Examples:

There are only a handful of people who know the truth.
There are only a handful of books left on the shelf.

Show examples from the web [+]

“I have discovered there are only a handful of good ideas in the whole world. You already know them. You have heard them your entire life. Here are some of the ...
Life, Family, Friends · There are only a handful of designers that influence other designers, and I have to keep one step ahead of the game. Alexander McQueen ...
"There are only a handful of places like this in the country. It's a pretty big deal." See what all the buzz is about at Mezcaleria Mixtli: http://10be.st/1FL6Vi8.
You are Absolutely Correct, there are Only a Handful of. People who Understand National Principles…. A nation, or the sovereign who represents it, may grant to ...

Alternatives:

There are just a few
There are only a couple
There are only a small number
There are only a limited number

This phrase is correct when referring to a singular noun.

"there is only a handful"

This phrase is used when you want to emphasize that there is very little of something. 'Is' is used because 'handful' is treated as a singular noun.

Examples:

There is only a handful of sugar left in the jar.
There is only a handful of sand on the beach.

Show examples from the web [+]

There were a handful of people who had legitimate health issues or were moving . (source). There is only a handful of older fluent speakers left.
... know of one, also there is way 2 many people and a guy in electric wheel chair has the best transportation and where there is only a handful of black people.
4 days ago ... There is only a handful of hearings but plenty of defense/veterans work on Capitol Hill this week. The House Armed Services Committee will ...
The statement that there is only a handful of questionable transitions is another gross exaggeration. Thousands of fossils have been discovered, and we do see ...

Alternatives:

There is just a bit
There is only a small amount
There is only a limited quantity
There is only a small portion

How TextRanch works

Fast and reliable proofreading, editing, and language advice tailored to your needs.

1. Choose Your Service

Quick Text Editing

Emails and short texts
Proofreading & editing
Ready in 5-10 minutes

SUBMIT YOUR TEXT NOW

Document Editing

Documents of any type (*.docx)
Advanced & Premium editing
Ready in as little as 4 hours

UPLOAD YOUR DOCUMENT

Ask an Editor

Personalized answers to your language questions
Expert guidance on grammar, style, and usage
Ready in 24 hours

ASK YOUR QUESTION

Upload your document or paste your text directly into our platform. Your text is reviewed and refined by our expert editors (real people, not machines) who understand the nuances of English. Expect corrections, improvements, and insightful suggestions that enhance the clarity, tone, and professionalism of your writing.

3. Receive Your Polished Text

In just a few minutes (or hours for longer documents), you'll receive your corrected text. Review the changes, make any final adjustments, and confidently share your polished English with the world.
You can count on a personalized, friendly service every time you use TextRanch. We're committed to helping you make a great impression with every word you write.

We proofread and edit these types of texts and documents:

Short texts Business Emails Personal Emails Social media posts Resume and Curriculum Vitae Business documents Sales proposal Research and academic papers Thesis Dissertation Essays Articles Blog posts and much more....

Why choose TextRanch?

Complete Privacy

Your texts are safe and secure with us. We never share your information with third parties.

Affordable Pricing

No subscription fees and rates up to 50% cheaper than other online editing services.

100% Satisfaction

We guarantee that you'll be satisfied with the quality of our service or your money back.

Top Customer Service

Our team is here to help you with any questions you may have. Contact us anytime.

Our Customers Love Us!

We have an average rating of 4.79 stars based on 283125 votes, and

4.9 Excellent - Reviews 2.137

"7 years without any disappointment. Always 100% satisfied. You guys are the best in the world at what you do. Thank you so much :)"

Zubair
from Bangladesh

"I wasn't aware of this service, it's fascinating and more reliable than standard IA tools available on the internet"

Arturo
from Mexico

"In a world of text messages and online communication, this is great to have as a live tool. Thank you."

Selena
from USA

"Wow, it's just so excellent. I never would have believed I could have a sure and excellent English companion. Thanks, TextRanch."

Ifiok
from Nigeria

"This is my first time using TextRanch, and I like how the editors take time to correct my text. To everyone who has never used TextRanch before, I highly recommend trying it."

Wilson
from France

"It is an amazing source of feedback because, as a non-native speaker, I really need to have a reliable helper correct my text."

Susan
from Germany

there are only a handful vs there is only a handful