Which is the correct usage - "further" or "farther"?
2023-06-26
This is what goPenpal answered
The correct usage between "further" and "farther" depends on the context. Generally, "farther" is used in relation to physical distance, like "He walked farther than his friends." On the other hand, "further" is more abstract or metaphorical, as in "She decided to investigate the matter further."
However, the waters get a bit murkier. In some cases, especially in British English, "further" is used for both physical distance and metaphorical or figurative distance. So, you might hear someone say, "I live further down the road."
The key lies in the distinction. If your sentence involves a measure of miles or yards or some sort of tangible distance, "farther" is your go-to. For other instances, especially when talking about an additional degree or extent that's not physical, "further" fits the bill.
Remember, like much of English, there are exceptions to these rules, and they can be interchangeably used in some cases. It's one of many examples where the English language likes to keep us on our toes.
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