When you want to talk about how much or how many of something there is, you have many options! It's important to know if the noun is countable (you can count it, e.g., 'apples', 'friends') or uncountable (you can't count it individually, e.g., 'water', 'advice').
1. 'A lot of' and 'Lots of'
Meaning: A large quantity or number.
Use: BOTH with countable and uncountable nouns.
Examples:
Countable: There were a lot of people at the party. / I have lots of friends.
Uncountable: We had a lot of fun. / He needs lots of advice.
2. 'Plenty of'
Meaning: Enough, or more than enough. A good amount.
Use: BOTH with countable and uncountable nouns.
Examples:
Countable: Don't worry, there are plenty of chairs for everyone.
Uncountable: Take your time, we have plenty of time.
3. 'A number of'
Meaning: Several; a moderate to large group of something.
Use: ONLY with countable nouns. The verb that follows is usually plural.
Example:
Countable: A number of students were absent today. (means several students)
4. 'A handful of'
Meaning: A very small number (like what you could hold in your hand). Often suggests not enough or a difficult, small group.
Use: ONLY with countable nouns.
Examples:
Countable: Only a handful of people voted in the small election.
Countable: We found a handful of coins under the sofa.
5. 'A couple of'
Meaning: Two, or a small, indefinite number (usually around two or three).
Use: ONLY with countable nouns.
Examples:
Countable: I'll be there in a couple of minutes. (means 2-3 minutes)
Countable: Could you grab a couple of apples from the fridge?
Important Note: Verb Agreement!
When you use 'a number of', 'a handful of', or 'a couple of' with plural countable nouns, the verb that follows is always plural.
A number of students were absent. (NOT "was")
A handful of people are waiting. (NOT "is")
A couple of problems have arisen. (NOT "has")
For 'a lot of', 'lots of', and 'plenty of', the verb matches the noun:
A lot of students are here. (plural noun, plural verb)
A lot of water is needed. (uncountable noun, singular verb)
