The following article discusses how words can fall out of use in English, particularly when their function can be fulfilled by a similar term.
Sydney Morning Herald - Words in English don't last forever. And that's OK
The majority of the discussion centres around two near-synonyms; 'less' and 'fewer'. Taking a prescriptivist stance, 'fewer' should be used for countable nouns, and 'less' for uncountable nouns. However, 'less' seems to be taking territory, and is frequently used in circumstances where 'fewer' is technically correct.
Example:
a) 'I have fewer subjects than last year.' (Subjects are countable)
b) 'I have less homework.' (Homework is uncountable; you can't have 'three homeworks')
BUT:
For a) above, many people would say 'I have less subjects' which is non-Standard, but still seems to make perfect sense!
Discuss: Do you think 'fewer' could ever completely drop out of use in English?
Useful quotes from the article:
'Word obsolescence – or more colloquially, “word death” – is a natural part of a living language such as English.'
'What we’re seeing is variation, where many of us can use both “less” and “fewer” for countable nouns, at least in some contexts. Sometimes, “less” just sounds better given the perceived formality of “fewer”.'
'Now, “fewer” is not yet dead. It is seeing steady use in written language, for at least a couple of reasons. First, many English speakers still find it more idiomatic to say and write things like, “There were fewer cars on the road today,” than, “There were less cars on the road today.” And second, editors are trained to preserve the distinction between “less” and “fewer” in formal writing.'
'Distinguishing countable and uncountable nouns through “less” and “fewer” is a grammatical nuance but not a communicative necessity.'
'Don’t reject the cover letter that describes “less opportunities” as a reason for changing jobs or cities. Realise that you’re watching the history of English unfold...'
Comments