Much and Many
1. We use much with uncountable nouns in questions and negatives.
- How much money have you got?
- There isn’t much cheese left.
2. We use many with countable nouns in questions and negatives.
- How many people were at the party?
- I didn’t take many photos on holiday.
Some and Any
1. Some is used in positive sentences.
- I’d like some sugar
- I bought some eggs
2. Any is used in negative sentences and questions.
- There isn’t any butter in the fridge
- I didn’t buy any apples.
- Is there any sugar in this tea?
- Have you got any brothers and sisters?
3. We use some in questions that are requests or offers.
- Can I have some cake?
- Would you like some tea?
4. The rules are the same for the compounds someone, anything, anybody, somewhere, etc.
- I’ve got something for you.
- Hello! Is anybody here?
- There isn’t anywhere to go in my town.
A few and a little
1. We use a few with countable nouns
- There are a few cigarettes left, but not many.
2. We use a little with uncountable nouns
- Can you give me a little help?
A lot/lots of
1. We use a lot/lots with both countable and uncountable nouns
- There is a lot of butter
- I’ve got lots of friends.
2. A lot/lots of can be used in questions and negatives
- Are there lots of tourists in your country?
- There isn’t a lot of butter, but there’s enough.