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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 • 2647 views

there are only a handful

This phrase is correct when referring to a plural noun.

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.
  • “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

there is only a handful

This phrase is correct when referring to a singular noun.

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.
  • 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

Related Comparisons

there must be a back up plan vs there must be a plan-b there are other movies vs there are another movies There are also a sufficient number vs There is also a sufficient number There are only a few vs There is only a few there was three types vs there were three types there are a few vs there are few

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