there were fewer spectators than expected vs there were less spectators than expected

The correct phrase is 'there were fewer spectators than expected.' 'Fewer' is used when referring to countable items, like spectators, while 'less' is used for uncountable items. In this case, 'spectators' is countable, so 'fewer' is the appropriate choice.

Last updated: March 15, 2024

there were fewer spectators than expected

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

Use 'fewer' when referring to countable items, like spectators. It indicates a smaller number in comparison to an expected amount.

Examples:

There were fewer people at the concert than expected.
She had fewer apples than she needed for the recipe.
Fewer students attended the lecture than the professor had hoped.
The store had fewer customers this month compared to last month.
Fewer cars were on the road during the holiday weekend.

Alternatives:

there were fewer attendees than expected
there were fewer viewers than expected
there were fewer participants than expected
there were fewer guests than expected
there were fewer fans than expected

there were less spectators than expected

This phrase is incorrect. 'Less' should not be used with countable items like 'spectators.'

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Show examples from the web [+]

Jun 6, 1999 ... There were less spectators than expected. But they were out in numbers on the Mortirolo. At the finish in Aprica there was a demonstration by ...
Apr 20, 2010 ... A reformed Pavement made the most of their main stage set, even if there were less spectators than expected (I assumed they'd be the hot ...

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there were fewer spectators than expected vs there were less spectators than expected