When learning English, one of the essential aspects to understand is how to make comparisons. Comparatives are a key part of this, and the word “as” plays an important role in making comparisons, especially when indicating equality or similarity. In this article, we will delve into the various ways to use “as” with comparatives, providing examples and explanations to help you master this aspect of the English language.
Understanding Comparatives
Comparatives are used to compare differences between two objects they modify (larger, smaller, faster, higher). They are often followed by “than.” For example:
– She is taller than her brother.
– This book is more interesting than the other one.
However, when we want to express that two things are equal in some way, we use the structure “as…as.”
Using “as…as” for Equal Comparisons
When comparing two things that are equal, we use “as…as.” The structure follows this pattern:
as + adjective/adverb + as
Examples:
– She is as tall as her brother.
– This book is as interesting as the other one.
In these sentences, “as…as” is used to show that the two subjects being compared are equal in the quality described by the adjective.
Negative Comparisons with “as…as”
When we want to indicate that two things are not equal, we can use a negative form. This often involves using “not” before the first “as.”
Examples:
– She is not as tall as her brother.
– This book is not as interesting as the other one.
Here, “not as…as” suggests that the first subject does not possess the quality to the same degree as the second.
Intensifiers and Diminishers
To emphasize the degree of equality or inequality, we can use intensifiers or diminishers. Some common ones include “just,” “nearly,” “almost,” “quite,” and “exactly.”
Examples:
– She is just as tall as her brother.
– This book is nearly as interesting as the other one.
– He is exactly as old as I am.
In these sentences, the intensifiers and diminishers modify the degree of comparison, making the statement more precise.
As + Adjective/Adverb + As: Different Contexts
The “as…as” structure can be used in different contexts beyond simple equality comparisons. Here are a few contexts where you might encounter this structure:
1. Making Comparisons in Quantities:
When comparing quantities or amounts, the “as…as” structure can be used to show that the amounts are equal.
Examples:
– She has as many books as her brother.
– He drank as much water as I did.
2. Showing Extent:
The structure can also indicate the extent of an action or characteristic.
Examples:
– She ran as far as she could.
– He worked as hard as possible.
3. Idiomatic Expressions:
Several idiomatic expressions use the “as…as” structure to convey specific meanings.
Examples:
– She is as busy as a bee.
– He is as brave as a lion.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When using “as…as” in comparisons, learners often make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to avoid these errors:
1. Double Comparatives:
Avoid using double comparatives such as “more” with “as…as.”
Incorrect: She is more as tall as her brother.
Correct: She is as tall as her brother.
2. Incorrect Intensifiers:
Be cautious with the choice of intensifiers. Some words don’t fit well with “as…as.”
Incorrect: She is very as tall as her brother.
Correct: She is just as tall as her brother.
3. Misplacing “as”:
Ensure that “as” is placed correctly in the sentence structure.
Incorrect: She is as tall her brother as.
Correct: She is as tall as her brother.
Practice Exercises
To solidify your understanding of using “as…as” with comparatives, try these practice exercises:
1. Fill in the Blanks:
Complete the sentences using “as…as” to make comparisons.
– She is __________ (tall) her brother.
– This movie is __________ (interesting) the book.
– He works __________ (hard) his colleague.
2. Rewrite the Sentences:
Rewrite the sentences using the “as…as” structure.
– She is not taller than her brother.
– This book is not more interesting than the other one.
– He is not older than I am.
3. Create Your Sentences:
Write three sentences of your own using “as…as” for comparisons.
Conclusion
Mastering the use of “as” with comparatives can greatly enhance your English communication skills. By understanding the structure and practicing regularly, you can make accurate and effective comparisons. Remember to avoid common mistakes and use the appropriate intensifiers to convey the exact degree of comparison. With practice, you will become more confident in using “as…as” in various contexts, making your English more precise and expressive. Happy learning!
