English includes several types of comparative grammar, each with its own usage and function. The comparative form is one of the most widely used structures, helping you compare two things based on qualities, characteristics, or actions. This article provides a detailed guide on how to use comparatives in English, including formulas, sample sentences, and special cases.
1. What Is a Comparative?
A comparative is a grammar structure used to show the differences between two people, objects, events, or phenomena. It is applied when comparing two things based on the degree of a certain characteristic or action.
Examples:
The weather is getting warmer.
She is becoming more confident in her speaking skills.
There is more water in the ocean than on land.
2. Comparative Formula with Short Adjectives/Adverbs
Short adjectives or adverbs usually have one syllable, such as "short, strong, big, nice." The comparative form is created by adding "-er" to the end of the adjective or adverb.
Formula: S + V + Adj/Adv + -er + than
Examples:
Their car was bigger and therefore more comfortable.
She is happier now than she was before.
Rules for Adding "-er" to Short Adjectives/Adverbs:
Rule | Example |
|---|---|
Add "-er" to one-syllable adjectives | High → higher Cold → colder Large → larger |
If ending in "-y," change to "-i" before adding "-er" | Happy → happier Crazy → crazier Heavy → heavier |
If ending in a consonant preceded by a vowel, double the consonant and add "-er" | Hot → hotter Big → bigger Fat → fatter |
Irregular Comparatives:
Adjective/Adverb | Comparative | Example |
|---|---|---|
good | better | It is better to give than to receive. |
bad | worse | If the symptoms get worse, consult your doctor. |
much/many | more | You catch more flies with honey than with vinegar. |
far | farther/further | Please contact our agent in Spain for further information. |
little | less | Her headaches are becoming less frequent. |
few | fewer | There seem to be fewer tourists around this year. |
3. Comparative Formula with Long Adjectives/Adverbs
Long adjectives or adverbs typically have two or more syllables, such as "beautiful, intelligent, expensive." To form the comparative, use "more" before the adjective or adverb.
Formula: S + V + more + Adj/Adv + than
Examples:
Nothing is more precious than independence and freedom.
She's somewhat more confident than she used to be.
Note: Some adjectives such as "perfect, unique, entire, absolutely" cannot be used in comparative forms since their meanings are already absolute.
4. Special Comparative Structures
Structure 1: Comparisons with specific multiples
S1 + V + number of times + as + Adj/Adv + as + S2
Example: The box is twice as large as that one.
Structure 2: Negative Comparisons
S + to be + not + as + Adj/Adv + as + ...
Example: Kangaroos are not as smart as dogs.
Structure 3: The ... the ... comparisons
The + comparative + S + V, the + comparative + S + V
Example: The more effort she puts into her studies, the higher chances of attending college.
5. Comparative Exercises in English
Exercise 1: Fill in the correct comparative form
She is more beautiful than her sister.
This book is more interesting than the one I read last week.
John is taller than his friend Peter.
The weather today is hotter than yesterday.
The new smartphone is more expensive than the old one.
She is more intelligent than her classmates.
This book is longer than the previous one.
His performance was more impressive than I expected.
The coffee is hotter than I like it.
The new smartphone is thinner than the old model.
Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer
more expensive
smaller
better
funnier
more dangerous
worse
safer
hotter
more expensive
longer
Exercise 3: Write the comparative form
high – higher
comfortable – more comfortable
slowly – more slowly
expensive – more expensive
friendly – friendlier
Master Comparatives with IDP
We hope this guide has helped you understand how to use comparatives effectively in English to improve your communication skills. Start by practicing with simple comparisons in your daily life, and gradually move on to more complex topics. With regular practice, you will gain confidence and fluency in using comparative structures.
You can also explore IDP’s free English grammar resources to master other grammar points. At IDP, you can choose to take the IELTS test on computer, depending on your learning style and preferences.
When you feel ready, register for your IELTS test with IDP today!