Comparatives compare two things or people. Short adjectives add -er than, as in faster than or taller than, while long adjectives use more plus the adjective plus than, as in more interesting than. Some adjectives, like good, have an irregular form, better.
Grammar Rule
Comparatives compare two things or people. We never combine the two forms below.
Comparative Rules and Examples
| Type | Rule | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Short adjectives | adjective + -er + than | faster than, taller than |
| Long adjectives | more + adjective + than | more interesting than, more comfortable than |
| Irregular | special form | good → better |
Remember: use -er with short adjectives, and more with long adjectives.
Practice Test
Instructions
Answer each question in the test below using the correct comparative form. You will get a new random set of questions every time you retake the test, plus a downloadable results summary with your name and score at the end.
Comparatives – Short Adjectives (-er than) and Long Adjectives (more … than)
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do you form the comparative of short adjectives?
Add -er and then than, as in faster than or taller than.
How do you form the comparative of long adjectives?
Use more before the adjective and than after it, as in more interesting than or more comfortable than.
Can you combine -er and more in the same comparative?
No. You use either -er than or more than, never both together in the same comparative.
What is the comparative form of good?
Good has an irregular comparative form, better, instead of gooder.