HOW MUCH? - HOW MANY?

Using "How Much" and "How Many"

When we want to know the quantity or amount of something, we ask questions starting with How much and How many.

HOW MUCH? - For quantity or amount

Used with uncountable nouns:

  • How much sugar would you like?
  • How much money did you spend?
  • How much time do we have to finish?
  • How much milk is in the fridge?

HOW MUCH? - For price

Used to ask about the price of something:

  • How much is this dress?
  • How much did your jacket cost?
  • How much are these shoes?
  • How much will it cost me?

HOW MANY? - For quantity or amount

Used with plural countable nouns:

  • How many days are there in January?
  • How many books did you buy?
  • How many students are in this room?
  • How many cousins do you have?

Important Note

The noun is often omitted in the question when it is obvious what we're talking about.

  • A: I would like to buy some cheese.
  • B: How much (cheese) would you like?
  • A: I need some coins.
  • B: How many do you need?
  • A: I need some sugar.
  • B: How much do you need?

Activity 1: Complete the sentences

Fill in the blanks with "How much" or "How many" to complete the questions: