Editor's Corner

Good morning, folks! Today I have a blurb about further and farther for many of you who’ve asked about when to use each one. This tips and examples are from The Blue Book of Grammar & Punctuation.

Have you wondered whether there is a right way and a wrong way to use the words farther and further? The different uses of the two words can be subtle. Let’s have a closer look.

Farther: Refers to physical distance only.

Examples:
We had to walk farther than the map indicated.

Reno is farther from San Francisco than from Sacramento.

Further:

1. Moreover; in addition; to a greater extent.

   Examples:
   We need to discuss this further.

   Nothing could be further from the truth.

2. May be used for physical distance although farther is preferred.

   Example: We had to drive further.

3. To help forward, advance, or promote a work, undertaking, cause, etc.

   Example: Elisa had more desire to further her own interests than to further the mission of the organization.

From Signspotting 4: The Art of Miscommunication
Compiled by Doug Lansky

Kara Church
Senior Technical Editor