Correlative comparison
Definition
The correlative pattern the + comparative..., the + comparative... links two changing situations. It means that a change in one is associated with a corresponding change in the other.
Examples
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The more you practise, the easier it becomes.
Increasing practice is linked with increasing ease.
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The longer we waited, the more impatient everyone became.
Both changes develop together.
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The less you carry, the faster you can move.
A decrease in one quantity is linked with an increase in another.
Correlative comparison vs. ordinary comparison
This route is faster than the other one.
Two routes are compared directly.
The faster we drive, the sooner we arrive.
Two changing variables are connected.
An ordinary comparative compares entities. A correlative comparison expresses a relationship between two degrees of change.
The first the does not identify a noun
In this pattern, the is part of the comparative construction. It does not function like the ordinary definite article in the car or the answer.
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The earlier you leave, the better.
The second clause can be reduced when the result is clear.
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The more carefully you plan, the fewer problems you encounter.
Comparative adverbs and quantity expressions can both appear in the pattern.
Common mistakes
More you practise, easier it becomes.
The more you practise, the easier it becomes.
Both comparative clauses normally begin with the.
The more you practise, the more easy it becomes.
The more you practise, the easier it becomes.
Use the normal comparative form easier, not more easy.
Quick check
Question 1 of 3
Which sentence correctly links two changing situations?
Both halves use the + comparative and normal clause order.Which sentence correctly uses an irregular comparative?
Better is the irregular comparative of good in this construction.Which sentence correctly connects less weight with greater speed?
The correct pattern is the less..., the faster....Nice work — you've completed the quick check.
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