There are only ____ apples left.

Appeared in: DSSSB 14 August 2024

Explanation

The noun in the sentence, 'apples', is a plural countable noun.
'A few' is the correct quantifier used to denote a small number of items that can be counted.
The sentence structure is an affirmative statement, for which 'a few' is appropriate to indicate a small, positive quantity.

Option A: The quantifier 'any' is primarily used in negative sentences (e.g., 'There aren't any apples') or in questions (e.g., 'Are there any apples?'). It does not fit the affirmative structure of the given sentence.
Option B: The quantifier 'little' is used exclusively with uncountable nouns, which are nouns that cannot be counted individually (e.g., water, sand, time).
Option C: 'Less' is the comparative form of 'little' and is also used with uncountable nouns to compare quantities.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Use of quantifiers with countable and uncountable nouns as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
While this is a grammar question, precise language is critical in nursing for accurate documentation, medication orders, and patient communication.
For example, documenting 'a few episodes of vomiting' is more precise than 'some vomiting', providing clearer information for the healthcare team.
What if the noun was uncountable, like 'fluid'? The sentence would change to 'There is only a little fluid left,' demonstrating the importance of matching the quantifier to the noun for clarity in clinical contexts like intake-output charting.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the noun the quantifier will describe. In this case, it is 'apples'.
Next, determine if the noun is countable (can you have one, two, three of them?) or uncountable (is it a mass or abstract concept?). 'Apples' are countable.
Then, check if the noun is singular or plural. 'Apples' is plural.
Review the options to find the quantifier that correctly modifies a plural countable noun.
Eliminate 'little' and 'less' as they are for uncountable nouns.
Eliminate 'any' as it's typically for questions or negative statements.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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Practise the full DSSSB 14 August 2024

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.