【English Communication I】 Master Guide to Comparison
Hello, everyone! Starting today, we’re going to study the "Comparison" unit together.
"Which one is bigger?" "Who is the tallest in the class?" We use expressions to compare things all the time in everyday conversation.
You might feel like it's a bit tricky at first with changes to word endings or adding "more," but don't worry! The rules are surprisingly simple. If we take it one step at a time, you'll definitely master them in no time.
1. Basics of Comparison: Understanding the Three Forms
In English, there are three main patterns for comparisons. Start by getting a mental picture of these three forms:
1. Positive Degree: A and B are "about the same."
2. Comparative Degree: A is "more... than" B.
3. Superlative Degree: A is "the most..." of all.
【Point】
Only "adjectives" (e.g., new, tall) and "adverbs" (e.g., fast, well) undergo these comparative changes.
2. Expressing "About the Same": Positive Degree (as ... as)
When you want to say that two things are at the same level, you "sandwich" the adjective or adverb between the word as.
Basic Structure
A + be verb + as + adjective/adverb (base form) + as + B
Example: Tom is as tall as Ken.
(Tom is the same height as Ken.)
Negative Form (Not as ... as)
not as + adjective/adverb + as ...
Example: This book is not as interesting as that one.
(This book is not as interesting as that one.)
*This implies: "They are not the same = the other one is better/more interesting."
【Common Mistake】
Always use the "base form" of the word between the two "as" markers. Be careful not to use the comparative form, like saying as taller as!
3. Expressing "More ... Than": Comparative Degree (-er / more)
Use this to compare two things and show that one is superior (or inferior) to the other.
Basic Structure
A + be verb + comparative + than + B
Example: This apple is bigger than that one.
(This apple is bigger than that one.)
Rules for Forming Comparatives
The form changes depending on the length of the word:
・Short words (e.g., tall, fast): Add -er to the end.
・Long words (e.g., interesting, beautiful): Add more before the word.
・Words ending in y (e.g., happy, easy): Change y to i and add -ier.
【Tip】
The criteria for "short" vs. "long" usually depends on the number of syllables. A good rule of thumb: if it’s 3 or more syllables, use more. Say it out loud—if it feels long or clunky to add "-er," it’s probably a more pattern!
4. Expressing "The Most": Superlative Degree (the -est / the most)
Use this when choosing the number one among three or more things.
Basic Structure
A + be verb + the + superlative + in / of ...
Example: He is the fastest runner in our school.
(He is the fastest runner in our school.)
Rules for Forming Superlatives
・Short words: Add -est to the end.
・Long words: Add most before the word.
*Don't forget to include "the" with the superlative!
When to use "in" vs. "of" (This is important!)
・in + place/group (singular): in Japan, in my class
・of + number/all (plural): of all, of the five, of the three
Remember: use "in" for places/groups, and "of" when referring to specific members or numbers.
5. Watch Out! Irregular Words
Some rebellious words don't follow the -er/-est rules. These need to be memorized as a set!
・good / well → better → best
・bad → worse → worst
・many / much → more → most
【Study Tip】
You might have heard the phrase "Good, better, best" before! Just remember that sequence, and you've got them down.
Summary: Key Points of Comparison
1. For the same level, sandwich it with "as ... as"!
2. To compare two things, use "comparative + than"!
3. For number one among three or more, use "the + superlative"!
4. Short words change their endings; long words use "more / most"!
It’s very common to forget the than or skip the the at first. But as you read and write more sentences, you’ll start to get a feel for the rhythm naturally. Don't rush; take it one step at a time. I'm rooting for you!