Grammar pairs

Farther vs Further

What is the difference between farther and further?

Use farther for physical distance and further for distance or for 'more, extra' (further details). If unsure, further is always correct.

Farther vs Further at a glance

  • farther

    /ˈfɑːðə/ · adjective / adverb

    At or to a greater physical distance.

    • The station is farther than I thought.
    • We couldn't walk any farther.
  • further

    /ˈfɜːðə/ · adjective / adverb

    At a greater distance, or more, extra, or to a greater degree.

    • For further information, visit our website.
    • Let's not discuss this any further.

How to remember it

Farther has "far" in it, so it's about miles and metres. Further works for distance and for ideas.

Good to know

In British English, further is used for both meanings and farther is less common. American English prefers farther for physical distance. Only further works as a verb: "to further your career" means to help it progress.

Common mistakes

  • Wrong: Do you have any farther questions?

    Right: Do you have any further questions?

  • Wrong: Please contact us for farther information.

    Right: Please contact us for further information.

Quick quiz

  1. 1.We'll send you details by email.

  2. 2.The hotel was from the beach than the photos suggested.

  3. 3.The police are making enquiries.

Pick the right word for each gap.