DIFFERENCES - A few / few

Today one of my students asked a very good question about the difference between the words “a few” and “few”.  Below are some example sentences with possible meanings and an explanation:

A few

I have a few pages of homework.

          Meaning:  I have 3 or 4 pages of homework, but it is not much.

A few students are going to the lecture.

          Meaning:  Some students are going to the lecture.  Maybe 5 or 6 students are going.

I have a few friends at school.

          Meaning:  I have 3 friends at school.

Few

I have few pages of homework.

          Meaning:  I do not receive much homework.

Few students are going to the lecture.

          Meaning:  There are students going, but not many.  The lecture may be cancelled if more students don't attend.

I have few friends at school.

          Meaning:  I have 2 or 3 friends, but I want more.    

   

The difference is the context.  “A few” we use when we want to talk about how much remains, or give a specific number or an estimation.  The number is going to be a smaller number when we use “a few”.   

We use “few” when we want to talk about what we lack.  Using “few” can mean that you are disappointed by the small number and desire more.

Do you have a few questions or do you have few questions?  ;)