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 than Mount Everest.
- Mont Blanc is lower than Mount Everest.
- Mount Everest is higher than Mont Blanc.
- Norway is not as sunny as Thailand.
- Norway is less sunny than Thailand.
- Thailand is sunnier than Norway.
- Norway is cloudier than Thailand.