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Most vs almost: Why not: “Almost people like pop music”?
I often hear students misusing the word “almost”
… they say things like: “Almost Koreans like eating kimchi.” Or “Almost people like pop music” :-/ “But why is that wrong…?” I hear some of you ask…
Actually, you mean:
- Most Koreans like eating kimchi.
- And most people like pop music.
Most means the majority of / the largest part of the group/thing.
- I like most rock music as long as it’s not too loud!
- Most of the money raised at the concert went to charity.
Almost has a different use
For example:
– After running the marathon, I was almost dead. I’ve never been so exhausted!
– I had a big night out at the pub and had almost no money left.
– Almost all of my friends are married now.
Almost means nearly , but not quite (ie. you are still alive, just! / you have a few dollars left / there are still two who are single). It is not usually followed directly by a noun.
So I can’t say almost people like pop music – that would mean they are nearly people, but not quite! (part people, part…alien? horse?…)
Practice
Try these sentences below:
- I __________ got run over by a car the other day. Luckily my friend pulled me out of the way.
- Because of the traffic, he ________ missed his plane.
- I have a terrible memory. I forget ________ people’s names as soon as they walk away.
- When he looked in the fridge, it was ___________ empty – nothing to eat but an old piece of cheese!
- I’ve visited _________ cities in my country. The only place I haven’t been is Wellington.
Good luck using them well!
