Learn how to use comparative adjectives in English, like “taller than” and “more expensive than”. A1 grammar explanation and interactive exercises included.
Comparative adjectives: Taller than, more expensive than, etc.
When we compare two people, things, or places, we use comparative adjectives.
They show how they are different from each other, such as in size, height, cost, speed, and so on.
Form of Comparative Adjectives
Adjectives with one syllable
We usually add -er on the adjective and then use than.
| Adjective | Comparative | Example |
|---|---|---|
| tall | taller than | John is taller than Peter. |
| short | shorter than | This pencil is shorter than that one. |
| fast | faster than | My car is faster than yours. |
Two or more syllables
We use more + adjective + than.
| Adjective | Comparative | Example |
|---|---|---|
| expensive | more expensive than | This phone is more expensive than that one. |
| beautiful | more beautiful than | Paris is more beautiful than London. |
| difficult | more difficult than | English is more difficult than Spanish. |
Two-syllable adjectives ending in -y
Change -y to -ier and use than.
| Adjective | Comparative | Example |
|---|---|---|
| happy | happier than | She is happier than before. |
| busy | busier than | Monday is busier than Sunday. |
| easy | easier than | This test is easier than the last one. |
Irregular Comparatives
Some adjectives have irregular forms that don’t follow the normal rules.
| Adjective | Comparative | Example |
|---|---|---|
| good | better than | This movie is better than the last one. |
| bad | worse than | My results are worse than yours. |
| far | farther / further than | The shop is farther than the park. |
Examples in Sentences
- My house is bigger than yours.
- This book is more interesting than that one.
- Sarah is younger than Tom.
- Today is colder than yesterday.
- Your idea is better than mine.
Tips
- When you compare two things, always use “than” after the adjective that shows how they are different.
- Don’t use more with adjectives that already have -er (more taller → taller).
- You can also use a lot, much, or a little to make comparisons stronger or weaker:
- “This dress costs a lot more than that one.”
- “He’s a bit taller than his brother.”
