Much and Many

1. We use much with uncountable nouns in questions and negatives.

• How much money have you got?
• There isn’t much  cheese left.

 

2. We use many with countable nouns in questions and negatives.

• How many people were at the party?
• I didn’t take many photos on holiday.

 

 Some and Any

1. Some is used in positive sentences.

• I’d like some sugar
• I bought some eggs

 

2. Any is used in negative sentences and questions.

• There isn’t any butter in the fridge
• I didn’t buy any apples.
• Is there any sugar in this tea?
• Have you got any brothers and sisters?

 

3. We use some in questions that are requests or offers.

• Can I have some cake?
• Would you like some tea?

 

4. The rules are the same for the compounds someone, anything, anybody, somewhere, etc.

• I’ve got something for you.
• Hello! Is anybody here?
• There isn’t anywhere to go in my town.

 

A few and a little

1. We use a few with countable nouns

• There are a few cigarettes left, but not many.

 

2. We use a little with uncountable nouns

• Can you give me a little help?

 

A lot/lots of

1. We use a lot/lots with both countable and uncountable nouns

• There is a lot of butter
• I’ve got lots of friends.

 

2. A lot/lots of can be used in questions and negatives

• Are there lots of tourists in your country?
• There isn’t a lot of butter, but there’s enough.