Farther vs further
For any kind of distance, farther and further both work, though American style guides prefer farther for physical distance and British English usually says further. When there is no distance at all, such as more or extra, use further.
Farther has far in it, so keep it for distance.
farther adverb
To or at a greater distance. It is another form of further, used for distance.
- The signal grew weaker the farther we drove from the city.
- Our new house is farther from the school than the old one.
further adverb
To a greater degree or extent, or beyond what has been said. It can also mean at a greater distance.
- The negotiations broke down further over the weekend.
- The spokesperson declined to comment further on the allegations.
Watch out
- Further is also a verb that means to help something grow or move forward. Using farther as a verb is dated.She used every connection to further her ambitions.
- Further can start a sentence to mean in addition or also. Farther is not used this way.Further, the report warned of rising costs.
- Further is also an adjective meaning more or additional, as in further evidence or further questions. Farther is not used this way.The committee asked for further details before it would approve the plan.
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The committee requested blank evidence before reaching a verdict.
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further. This means more or additional evidence, not distance.
The hikers pressed blank up the mountain before dark.
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Either. This is physical distance, so both are correct. In American English, many style guides prefer farther.
She joined the board to blank the organization's mission.
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further. As a verb meaning to help something move forward, use further.
If you have any blank questions, please call us.
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further. This means extra or additional questions, so farther does not fit.