Add -er than to short adjectives, as in this car is faster than mine, and use more … than with long adjectives, as in this book is more interesting than that one. Never combine both forms in the same sentence, and always use than to introduce the second element.
Grammar Rule
Never combine both forms, and always use than to introduce the second element.
Comparatives: Rules and Examples
| Adjective length | Rule | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Short | adjective + er + than | This car is faster than mine. My sister is taller than me. This test was easier than the last one. |
| Long | more + adjective + than | This book is more interesting than that one. Her new phone is more expensive than her old one. |
Remember: short adjectives take -er than, long adjectives take more … than, and never combine both forms.
Practice Test
Instructions
Answer each question in the test below forming the correct comparative sentence. 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 and Long Adjectives (Consolidation)
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do you form the comparative of short adjectives?
Add -er to the adjective and follow it with than, as in this car is faster than mine.
How do you form the comparative of long adjectives?
Use more before the adjective and follow it with than, as in this book is more interesting than that one.
Can you combine -er and more in the same comparative?
No, never combine both forms; use only -er than for short adjectives or more … than for long adjectives, never both together.
What word always introduces the second element of a comparison?
Than always introduces the second element being compared, as in my sister is taller than me.