What's the difference between 'further' and 'farther'?

• "The station is farther than I thought."
• "Can you throw it farther?"

• "Let's not discuss this further." (more, to a greater degree)
• "Further information is available on our website." (additional)
• "I'd like to further my career." (advance)
• "Without further delay." (additional)

The practical truth: In modern English, "further" is increasingly used for both meanings. Many native speakers use "further" for physical distance without anyone noticing or objecting. "Farther" is technically more precise for physical distance, but "further" is always acceptable.

When only "further" works: When the meaning is "additional" or "to a greater degree" — "further information," "nothing further to add," "further your education." "Farther" doesn't work here.

Register: The distinction is subtle. In formal or precise writing, use "farther" for distance. In speech, "further" covers everything.

Tags: vocabulary, confusing words, farther vs further, formal English