One is for physical distance, the other for figurative extension.
Adjective or adverb. Used for figurative extension: more, additional, to a greater degree. Also widely accepted for physical distance in modern English.
We need to discuss this further.
Necesitamos discutir esto más a fondo.
Any further questions?
¿Alguna pregunta adicional?
She wants to study further before deciding.
Ella quiere estudiar más a fondo antes de decidir.
Adjective or adverb. Used specifically for measurable physical distance. More distant in space.
How much farther is the hotel?
¿Qué tan lejos está el hotel?
The north pole is farther from the equator.
El polo norte está más lejos del ecuador.
Can you throw the ball farther than I can?
¿Puedes lanzar la pelota más lejos que yo?
Common mistake
Using 'farther' for figurative extension. Wrong: "Without farther delay, let's begin." (correct: Without further delay.)
Trick to remember it
'FARther' contains 'FAR' = physical distance you can measure in meters or miles. 'FURther' = figurative or abstract extension (more discussion, more effort, additional information).
Quick rule
Is it physical distance you can measure in meters or miles? Use 'farther'. Is it figurative extension (more discussion, more effort, additional)? Use 'further'.
Did you know?
In modern English, the distinction is blurring. 'Further' is accepted in both physical and figurative contexts, while 'farther' is only accepted for physical distance. When in doubt, 'further' is always the safer choice.
Exercise 1 · Pick the right one
How much _____ is the next gas station? My tank is almost empty.
Exercise 2 · Pick the right one
We need to discuss this matter _____ before making a final decision.
Exercise 3 · Form the word
Is it physical distance you can measure in meters or miles? Use 'farther'. Is it figurative extension (more discussion, more effort, additional)? Use 'further'.
Using 'farther' for figurative extension. Wrong: "Without farther delay, let's begin." (correct: Without further delay.)
'FARther' contains 'FAR' = physical distance you can measure in meters or miles. 'FURther' = figurative or abstract extension (more discussion, more effort, additional information).
Bryan López
Founder of SpeakUP Academy