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What it is
Structures for comparing people, things and situations, plus the modifiers that show how big the difference is.
Form
| Type | Pattern | Model sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Positive | adj-er / more + adj + than | This route is quicker than the motorway. |
| Negative | not as/so + adj + as | It isn't as quick as the motorway. |
| Question | Is + subject + adj-er + than …? | Is it cheaper than flying? |
| Short answer | Yes, subject + is. / No, subject + isn't. | Yes, it is. / No, it isn't. |
| Superlative | the + adj-est / the most + adj (+ in/of) | It's the most reliable option of all. |
| Parallel change | the + comparative …, the + comparative … | The earlier you book, the less you pay. |
Use it when
- You weigh up two options in speaking or an essay.
- You soften or strengthen a comparison with a modifier.
- You show that two things change together.
Examples
- It's nowhere near as expensive as I expected.
- She's far more confident than she was last year.
- This is by far the best value on the list.
- The longer the meeting went on, the less anyone said.
Watch out
It's more cheaper than the train.
It's much cheaper than the train.
Never combine more with an -er form.
She is the most tallest in the class.
She is the tallest in the class.
One superlative marker only.
Remember
Big gap → far/much/a lot. Small gap → slightly/a bit.
Quick check
- 1.The film wasn't ___ good ___ the book.
- 2.___ (much) you practise, ___ (good) you get.