Modifying a comparison
Definition
A comparison can be modified to show the size or strength of a difference. Common modifiers before comparative forms include much, far, a lot, slightly, a little, even and no.
Examples
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This route is much shorter than the other one.
Much shows that the difference in length is large.
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The second version is slightly clearer.
Slightly shows that the difference is small.
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The delay made the situation even worse.
Even emphasizes an additional or unexpected increase in degree.
Very vs. much with comparison
The first room is very quiet.
Very intensifies the base adjective quiet.
The first room is much quieter than the second.
Much modifies the comparative adjective quieter.
Very normally modifies a base adjective or adverb. Comparative forms are commonly modified by much, far, a lot, slightly or a little.
Different comparison patterns take different modifiers
Comparatives can express large or small differences. Equality patterns can be modified by words such as almost, nearly, just and not quite. Superlatives often combine with by far.
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The two plans are almost as expensive as each other.
Almost shows that the prices are close but not equal.
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This is by far the fastest route.
By far emphasizes a large difference between the superlative item and the rest.
Common mistakes
This route is very shorter.
This route is much shorter.
Use much, not very, to modify a comparative adjective.
The new model is more slightly expensive.
The new model is slightly more expensive.
Place slightly before the complete comparative form more expensive.
Quick check
Question 1 of 3
Which sentence shows a large difference?
Far naturally modifies the comparative phrase more reliable.Which sentence shows a small difference?
Slightly shows that the difference is small.Which sentence correctly emphasizes a superlative?
By far can emphasize a superlative such as the most difficult.Nice work — you've completed the quick check.
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