The correlative structure the plus comparative, the plus comparative expresses that two things change together proportionally, as in the harder you study, the better your results will be. After each comparative phrase, the clause follows normal subject-verb order, with no inversion despite the fronting.
Grammar Rule
Each half begins with the followed by a comparative form (either -er or more/less + adjective/adverb/noun). After the comparative phrase, the clause follows normal subject-verb order — no inversion, even though the comparative is fronted. Both halves can also be reduced to bare comparative phrases in fixed sayings.
The… The… Comparative Correlatives: Rules and Examples
| Pattern | Rule | Example |
|---|---|---|
| The + comparative…, the + comparative… | normal word order, no inversion | The harder you study, the better your results will be. |
| Common error | forgetting the before the second comparative | The harder you work, more you earn (incorrect) |
Remember: Always repeat the before each comparative, never double the comparative form, and keep normal word order after each fronted comparative phrase.
Practice Test
Instructions
Answer each question in the test below using the…the… comparative correlatives correctly. 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.
C2-42 The… The… Comparative Correlatives
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does the…the… express?
That two things change together proportionally, as in the harder you study, the better your results will be.
Does this structure require inversion?
No, normal subject-verb order follows each comparative phrase, despite the fronting.
What is a common error with this structure?
Forgetting the before the second comparative.
What form does each comparative take?
Either -er or more/less plus adjective, adverb, or noun.