Comparison of 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 + 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 + as

Or use the pattern:

less + Adjective + 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.