Question

Since I withdrew money from my bank account, the (number, amount) of money in the account is now (fewer, less).

Short answer

The completed sentence should read: 'Since I withdrew money from my bank account, the amount of money in the account is now less.'

Step-by-step solution

Determining the Appropriate Words

First, we need to understand the difference between 'number' and 'amount'. 'Number' is used with countable nouns, whereas 'amount' is used with uncountable nouns. Money, being uncountable, will therefore be referred to as an 'amount'. The same principles apply to 'fewer' and 'less'. 'Fewer' is used with countable nouns, 'less' with uncountable nouns. Therefore, the appropriate word to use is 'less'.

Key concepts

Countable Nouns

Countable nouns are nouns that you can count individually. They refer to items, objects, or concepts that can be counted, such as apples, cars, or books. Countable nouns have both singular and plural forms. For example, one book or two books. These nouns can be made plural by adding an -s or -es to the end of the word, among other pluralization rules. It is also important to use the correct articles, 'a' or 'an', when you are referring to a singular countable noun. For example, 'an apple' or 'a car'.

• Definite numbers: Can express the exact number, like three dogs or ten houses.
• Support for articles: You can use 'a', 'an', 'some', or numbers before a countable noun.

Recognizing whether a noun is countable is essential for choosing the correct words like 'number' and 'fewer' when forming sentences in the English language.

Uncountable Nouns

Uncountable nouns, unlike countable nouns, do not have a plural form and cannot be counted individually. They represent substances, qualities, or concepts that are seen as a whole and not as separate, countable units, such as money, water, or information. For example, you wouldn't say 'moneys' or 'waters'. Instead, you would refer to these in terms like 'a lot of money' or 'some water'.

• No plural form: Uncountable nouns stay in their singular form, even if referring to large quantities.
• Articles and quantifiers: Use words like 'some', 'much', or 'a little' before uncountable nouns.

Understanding uncountable nouns will help you correctly choose words like 'amount' and 'less'.

Word Choice

Choosing the correct words is crucial for effective communication, especially in grammar. In English, certain words are paired with specific types of nouns. For example, 'number' groups with countable nouns, and 'amount' pairs with uncountable nouns. Similarly, 'fewer' should be used when talking about countable nouns, whereas 'less' should be selected for uncountable ones. Picking the right word is about ensuring the sentence makes sense to support clarity and prevent ambiguity.

Making the right word choice involves:

• Context: Determine whether the noun is countable or uncountable.
• Clarity: Choose words that precisely convey your message.

Word choice can change the meaning of a sentence entirely, so it's important to be precise.

English Language

The English language is rich and complex, with a variety of rules and conventions that make it both challenging and rewarding to learn. Understanding grammar rules, like the use of countable and uncountable nouns, is a foundational step in mastering English. This knowledge not only helps in forming grammatically correct sentences but also enhances the ability to communicate ideas effectively.

Key aspects of the English language include:

• Grammar rules: Learn the rules that govern the structure of sentences.
• Vocabulary: Expand your vocabulary to express ideas more vividly and accurately.
• Practice: Engage in reading, writing, speaking, and listening to improve proficiency.

Mastering English grammar and vocabulary is vital for clear and effective communication in both writing and speaking.