Farther vs Further
Farther is for physical distance — 'three miles farther'. Further is for figurative/abstract distance or 'more/additional' — 'further discussion'. In British English, 'further' often covers both.
The one-line answer
Farther is for physical distance — 'three miles farther'. Further is for figurative/abstract distance or 'more/additional' — 'further discussion'. In British English, 'further' often covers both.
farther
adverb / adjectivea greater physical distance — the comparative of 'far' for measurable distance
- The station is farther than I thought.
- We walked farther than planned.
- The next town is ten miles farther on.
further
adverb / adjective / verbmore, additional, or a greater degree; as a verb, 'to advance'
- If you have further questions, email me.
- We need to discuss this further.
- She studied abroad to further her career. (verb)
Memory trick
Farther contains 'far' — use it when you can measure the distance in miles or meters. For anything abstract (time, effort, 'more'), use further.
Farther vs Further: Test yourself
Question 1 of 2The hotel is much ___ from the beach than described.