Comparing Attributes

COMPARING ATTRIBUTES

When comparing the attributes of two things, we use a standard set of constructions.

WHEN ATTRIBUTES ARE EQUAL

Comparing equal attributes is simple. To compare the attributes of two things that are equal, we use the pattern:

as + adjective describing the attribute + as

EXAMPLES

Tom is as tall as his brother.
I am as hungry as you are.
Sally is as nice as Jane.

WHEN ATTRIBUTES ARE NOT EQUAL

When the two attributes are not equal, there are three constructions with equivalent meanings.

Either use the pattern:

not as + adjective describing the attribute + as

Or use the pattern:

less + adjective describing the attribute + than: This construction is more frequent with some adjectives than with others.

Or use the pattern:

comparative adjective + than : This construction may require changing the order of the phrase or using the opposing adjective.

EXAMPLES

Mont Blanc is not as high as Mount Everest.
Mont Blanc is less high thanMount Everest.
Mont Blanc is lower than Mount Everest.
Mount Everest is higher than Mont Blanc.
Norway is not as sunny asThailand.
Norway is less sunny thanThailand.
Thailand is sunnier than Norway.
Norway is cloudier than Thailand.

Comments

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