When learning English, one of the essential skills to master is the ability to compare things. Comparatives allow us to express differences and similarities between two or more items. One of the most common ways to form comparatives in English is by using the word “more.” This article will explore the rules, exceptions, and nuances involved in forming comparatives with “more,” providing you with a comprehensive understanding of this grammatical structure.
Understanding Comparatives
Comparatives are used to compare two items, people, or situations. They are essential for expressing differences and preferences, and they often appear in everyday conversation. There are two primary ways to form comparatives in English: by adding the suffix “-er” to the adjective or by using “more” before the adjective. This article will focus on the latter method, which is particularly useful for adjectives that are longer or more complex.
When to Use “More”
The general rule is that we use “more” to form the comparative of adjectives that have two or more syllables. For example:
– Beautiful → more beautiful
– Expensive → more expensive
– Interesting → more interesting
However, there are exceptions and nuances to consider. Let’s dive into the rules and some exceptions to get a clearer picture.
Two-Syllable Adjectives
Adjectives with two syllables can sometimes use either “-er” or “more,” but there are guidelines to help you choose the correct form. Generally, adjectives ending in “-y,” “-le,” “-ow,” or “-er” take the “-er” form:
– Happy → happier
– Simple → simpler
– Narrow → narrower
– Clever → cleverer
For other two-syllable adjectives, “more” is typically used:
– Careful → more careful
– Famous → more famous
– Tired → more tired
Adjectives with Three or More Syllables
Adjectives with three or more syllables almost always use “more” to form their comparatives:
– Comfortable → more comfortable
– Difficult → more difficult
– Interesting → more interesting
Exceptions to the Rule
As with many rules in the English language, there are exceptions. Some two-syllable adjectives can take either form, depending on regional preferences or stylistic choices. For example:
– Polite → politer / more polite
– Common → commoner / more common
In these cases, both forms are generally accepted, but “more” is often preferred in formal writing.
Using “More” with Adverbs
In addition to adjectives, “more” is also used to form the comparative of many adverbs, especially those that do not end in “-ly.” For instance:
– Carefully → more carefully
– Quickly → more quickly
– Often → more often
However, adverbs that do not end in “-ly” and have one syllable usually take the “-er” form:
– Fast → faster
– Hard → harder
– Late → later
Double Comparatives
A common mistake learners make is using both “more” and the “-er” suffix together, known as a double comparative. For example:
– Incorrect: more happier
– Correct: happier
Remember, you should only use one method to form the comparative, either “more” or the “-er” suffix, but not both.
Comparative Sentences
Creating sentences with comparatives involves more than just forming the comparative adjective or adverb; you also need to structure the sentence correctly. Here are some common patterns:
Comparing Two Things
When comparing two things, you can use the structure:
– [Noun] + is + more + [adjective] + than + [noun].
For example:
– This book is more interesting than that one.
– Her house is more expensive than mine.
Comparing Actions
When comparing actions, you can use the structure:
– [Subject] + [verb] + more + [adverb] + than + [subject].
For example:
– She sings more beautifully than her sister.
– He runs more quickly than I do.
Expressing Equality
To express that two things are equal in some way, you can use the structure:
– [Noun] + is + as + [adjective] + as + [noun].
For example:
– This car is as expensive as that one.
– Her performance was as impressive as his.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even advanced learners can make mistakes when forming comparatives with “more.” Here are some common errors to watch out for:
Double Comparatives
As mentioned earlier, using both “more” and the “-er” suffix together is incorrect. Always choose one method.
Incorrect Word Order
Ensure that “more” comes directly before the adjective or adverb. Incorrect word order can confuse the meaning of the sentence.
– Incorrect: She is more quickly running than him.
– Correct: She is running more quickly than him.
Using “More” with One-Syllable Adjectives
One-syllable adjectives usually take the “-er” suffix, not “more.” Avoid using “more” with these adjectives:
– Incorrect: more fast
– Correct: faster
Practice Exercises
To solidify your understanding of forming comparatives with “more,” try these practice exercises:
Exercise 1: Adjective Comparatives
Form the comparative of the following adjectives using “more”:
1. Beautiful
2. Comfortable
3. Famous
4. Careful
5. Interesting
Answers:
1. More beautiful
2. More comfortable
3. More famous
4. More careful
5. More interesting
Exercise 2: Adverb Comparatives
Form the comparative of the following adverbs using “more”:
1. Carefully
2. Quickly
3. Often
4. Slowly
5. Clearly
Answers:
1. More carefully
2. More quickly
3. More often
4. More slowly
5. More clearly
Exercise 3: Sentence Formation
Create sentences using the following adjectives or adverbs in their comparative form with “more”:
1. (Adjective) This movie / that one / interesting
2. (Adverb) She / sing / beautifully / her sister
3. (Adjective) His job / challenging / mine
4. (Adverb) He / drive / carefully / I do
5. (Adjective) Her dress / expensive / yours
Answers:
1. This movie is more interesting than that one.
2. She sings more beautifully than her sister.
3. His job is more challenging than mine.
4. He drives more carefully than I do.
5. Her dress is more expensive than yours.
Advanced Considerations
Once you’ve mastered the basics of forming comparatives with “more,” you might encounter more complex situations and exceptions. Here are some advanced considerations:
Adjectives with Irregular Comparatives
Some adjectives have irregular comparative forms that do not follow the standard rules. While these do not use “more,” it’s essential to recognize them:
– Good → better
– Bad → worse
– Far → farther/further
Context and Tone
The choice between using “more” and the “-er” suffix can sometimes depend on context and tone. In formal writing, “more” is often preferred for two-syllable adjectives, while the “-er” form might be more common in casual speech.
Compound Adjectives
When dealing with compound adjectives, “more” is usually the best choice:
– Well-known → more well-known
– High-tech → more high-tech
Conclusion
Forming comparatives with “more” is a fundamental aspect of English grammar that allows you to express differences and make comparisons effectively. By understanding the rules, exceptions, and nuances, you can confidently use “more” to form comparatives with both adjectives and adverbs. Remember to avoid common mistakes like double comparatives and incorrect word order, and practice regularly to reinforce your skills.
With this comprehensive guide, you are well-equipped to master the art of forming comparatives with “more,” enhancing your ability to communicate clearly and accurately in English. Happy learning!
