Rules of use: Which one, Which ones, Too, Enough
Using “One”, “Ones”, “Too”, “Enough”, “Which One?”, and “Which Ones?”: Rules and examples and practice
This article covers essential grammar structures that will help you construct sentences accurately in English. We’ll explore how to use the pronouns “one” and “ones” to replace nouns, the constructions “too” and “enough” to express degree, and the questions “Which one?” and “Which ones?” to specify choices. At the end of the article, you’ll find an exercise to test your knowledge. The main goal is to practice these concepts with unlimited opportunities to reinforce your learning.
Using “One” and “Ones” to Replace Nouns
“One” and “ones” are used to replace nouns to avoid repetition in sentences, making speech more concise and clear.
- “One” replaces a singular noun:
- I can’t find my pen. Can I borrow yours?
- This apple is too sour. I’d prefer a sweeter one.
- “Ones” replaces a plural noun:
- These shoes are old. I need new ones.
- The cookies on the left are burnt. Take the ones on the right.
Using “Which One?” and “Which Ones?”
To clarify or choose from multiple options, use “Which one?” and “Which ones?”:
- “Which one?” is used to ask about selecting a single item from several possible options:
- There are three types of tea. Which one do you prefer?
- This painting and that one are both beautiful. Which one do you like more?
- “Which ones?” is used when choosing multiple items from a group:
- I bought several dresses. Which ones do you want to try on?
- These files are ready. Which ones should I send first?
Using “Too” and “Enough” to Express Degree
“Too” and “enough” are commonly used in English to express the degree of characteristics or actions.
- “Too” means “excessively” and often carries a negative connotation, indicating something is more than necessary:
- The room is too small for all the furniture.
- She speaks too quickly for me to understand.
- “Enough” means “sufficiently” and indicates an adequate amount or degree:
- Is there enough cake for everyone?
- He’s tall enough to reach the top shelf.
Usage Rules:
- “Too” is placed before an adjective or adverb:
- This problem is too difficult to solve.
- The movie was too long for me to enjoy it.
- “Enough” is placed after an adjective or adverb:
- The water is warm enough for swimming.
- She works hard enough to deserve a promotion.
“Too…to” and “Enough…to” Constructions
Understanding how to use “too…to” and “enough…to” is key to forming more complex sentences.
- “Too…to” indicates that an action is impossible due to a certain reason:
- He was too tired to finish his homework.
- The box is too heavy for me to carry alone.
- “Enough…to” indicates that an action is possible due to a certain condition:
- She is old enough to vote.
- We have enough time to catch the next train.
Using “Enough” with Nouns
“Enough” can also be used with nouns to indicate a sufficient quantity of something.
- “Enough” is placed before nouns:
- Do you have enough chairs for everyone?
- She didn’t have enough courage to speak up.
Example Sentences with “One”, “Ones”, “Too”, “Enough”, “Which One?”, and “Which Ones?”
To better understand these rules, here are some examples:
- “One” and “Ones”:
- I lost my old phone, so I bought a new one.
- These markers are dry. Do you have any fresh ones?
- “Which One?” and “Which Ones?”:
- We have many flavors of ice cream. Which ones would you like to try?
- Of all these jackets, which one is your favorite?
- “Too” and “Enough”:
- It’s too late to call her now.
- She is strong enough to lift the box by herself.
- “Too…to” and “Enough…to”:
- The soup is too hot to eat right now.
- He was brave enough to stand up for his beliefs.
Exercise – Which one …?, Which ones …?, Too, Enough
To consolidate this knowledge, complete the exercise below. It’s free and does not require registration. There are unlimited attempts. To start, click “start.”