Tag: writing

Hi everyone, this is Chris from Creative Consulting.

I notice quite a few people mixed up the two words and often stumble upon which word they should choose in their writing, so I am here to give you more ideas about it.

Both farther and further mean “a long distance,” but they do have more interpretation for what they are referring to.  I have compiled and listed some details below.

Further

Further is defined as something that is additional, or to a greater extent or degree in the adjective form.  Further quite often implies figurative or an unknown distance.  In the verb form, further suggests to forward or advance a cause, such as further a discussion.  Yet, you will not write “I farther a discussion.”

Tip

When using further as an adverb, you may substitute the word moreover or additionally for further to check if the sentence makes sense.

Example

He cannot go further anymore because his legs are hurt. (as an adverb)

I write a scientific research paper to further elaborate on the topic of space travel. (as a verb)

The further away you are from home, the more you will miss your parents. (as an adjective)

Without further delay, Sam drives to the train station immediately. (as an adjective)

Farther

Farther is identified as an actual measurable distance.  It suggests physical distance or length.  Farther is also the comparative form of the word far.

when farther is an adjective, its comparative form is farther or further.  As for the superlative form, you can guess it can be either farthest or furthest.  Notice that the words farther and farthest are getting less common in the usage of American English,  as more writers are using further and furthest in their writing.  Anyhow, they can be used interchangeably in the United States.

Example

The book is placed farther than the pen. (as an adverb)

This project is not going farther without the support from the government. (as an adverb)

Los Angeles is farther south than San Francisco. (as an adjective)

He went on a farther route to meet with his father. (as an adjective)

Finally, I learned that the subtle difference between the two words does not apply in British English.  You might want to double check on the usage when you are in the U.K.

So there you have it.  I hope you enjoy our discussion here.  If you have any feedback or a case in mind, please let us know how we can help you.  Have a great day!