Because they sound similar, distinguishing further vs farther could be challenging. What adds to the confusion is the fact that these two words are used interchangeably. Some guides say that farther means physical distance and farther means figurative distance, however it’s probably best to follow the advice in this article. Read on to know more in detail.
But not to worry! In this guide, we’ll be learning more about the difference between the two. We will also talk about how to use them correctly in a sentence. Before we do, check out more words and their usage on 501 Words.
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Further vs Farther
Aside from their differences in spelling, the correct usage of further vs. farther also sets these two apart. Before we learn how to use them properly, let’s learn about how they function in a sentence.
When to Use Further vs Farther
Further can be used as a verb, adverb, or adjective in a sentence. Meanwhile, farther can functions as an adjective and adverb in a sentence.
Further
When used as a verb, further means “advance or help in the progress of something.” Look at this example: “He talked to the mayor to further his political interests.” In this sentence above, “further” was used as a verb to the object “political interests.”
When used as an adverb, “further” means “in addition to.” The Ford ad slogan “Go further” is an example of its adverb function.
When used as an adjective, “further” means “additional or more.” Here’s an example: “Should you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to send us an email.” The use of further here means that you are referring to additional questions that your readers might have.
As a general rule, when no notion of distance is involved, we use further in the sentence.
Farther
When used as an adjective, farther means “at or to a greater distance.” This is used for sentences that involve a physical distance. For example: “The truck is farther up the woods by now.”
When used as an adverb, farther would now mean that the action has resulted in greater distance. For example: “I didn’t realize that I ran up the hill farther than anyone else.
How To Avoid The Further Vs Farther Error
The terms “further” and “farther” are often confused and used interchangeably in English. This is because the two words look the same and have similar meanings. However, they do not mean the same thing and using them incorrectly can negatively affect the clarity of your writing. In order to avoid this error, it’s important to understand the difference between further and farther and when to use each word correctly.
The term “further” is usually used to describe abstract concepts or figurative distances, such as time and progress. For example, you could say “I’m going to work further on this project.” In this case, you’re referring to the progress you’ll make on the project and the additional effort you’ll put in.
On the other hand, the term “farther” is used to describe literal distances. For example, if you were travelling to a different city, you would say “we’re going farther away.” In this case, you’re referring to the physical distance between the two cities.
In addition to understanding the difference between the two terms, it’s also important to pay attention to the context in which you’re using them. If you’re referring to a physical distance, you should use the word “farther”. If you’re referring to something abstract or figurative, you should use the word “further”.
Another way to avoid this error is to remember the phrase “further is farther”. This phrase is helpful because it reminds you that “further” is used to describe abstract concepts and “farther” is used to describe literal distances.
Finally, it’s important to pay attention to how you’re using the two words in your writing. If you’re unsure which one to use, you can always look it up in a dictionary or consult a grammar guide. This will help ensure that your writing is clear and error-free.
In conclusion, understanding the difference between further and farther and when to use each word correctly can help you avoid the further vs. farther error. Paying attention to the context of your writing and consulting a dictionary or grammar guide when necessary can also help you ensure that your writing is accurate and error-free.
Further vs Farther Examples
Now that we have discussed how each should be used in a sentence let’s take on more examples.
I need to take more online courses to further/farther my skills.
Right: I need to take more online courses to further my skills.
Wrong: I need to take more online courses to farther my skills.
In the sentence above, further should be used because you are advancing your skills.
William has to travel further/farther up north if he wants to start a new life.
Right: William has to travel farther up north if he wants to start a new life.
Wrong: William has to travel further up north if he wants to start a new life.
Since we are talking about a physical distance, farther should be used in this sentence.
Let’s stop the motor unless we want to do any farther/further damage.
Right: Let’s stop the motor unless we want to do any further damage.
Wrong: Let’s stop the motor unless we want to do any farther damage.
We’re talking about avoiding any additional damage in the sentence, which is why we use further.
FAQ’s
As Farther is referenced as physical distance and Further is referenced as symbolic distance, the sentence would be constructed like this: “The well is farther down the road”.
When you’re using your money economically to buy things, you use the word further to construct. Example: Your credit card has reached the limit, do not spend any further money. When you use your money to represent physical distance, the word farther is used. Example: “Just throw this money receipt farther into the ocean”.
Conclusion
While they are used interchangeably nowadays, further vs. farther should be used differently. It’s essential to know the difference because these are used in professional and formal settings.
As a general rule, if there is no notion of distance in the sentence, you should use “further”. It also helps to replace further with “additional” or “more” to check if the sentence sounds right! You can post questions about simple distinction, clearer distinctions, aforementioned distinction, their history of usage, usage guidance or usage guide, metaphorical distance, literal distance or anything you would know in the box below.