Difference between further and farther

This is part of the difference between series.

I’ve heard some people confusing the words further and farther. Here’s the difference between the two.

Further

Further refers to a metaphorical difference.

  • You have driven me further to anger than ever before.
  • If you push me any further, I will probably lose my temper.

Farther

Farther, on the other hand, refers to literal distance.

  • “How much farther is it to the mountain,” asked Boots.
  • Ten kilometres farther, and your destination will be on your right.

Memory trick: Keep in mind that farther has the word far, and anything that is far away you can visualize.

Which words do you confuse? Let me know in the comments below.

Interested in more grammar tips like this? Sign up for our free monthly newsletter.

By Kim Siever

I am a copywriter and copyeditor. I blog on writing and social media tips mostly, but I sometimes throw in my thoughts about running a small business. Follow me on Twitter at @hotpepper.