Grammar Worksheet — Intro

Advanced Comparative Structures

C1 the more... the more, no less than, far from, and comparative intensifiers
Explanation

Advanced comparative structures show proportional change, contrast, and emphasis.

Use the + comparative, the + comparative to show two linked changes.

Use no more than, no less than, far more, considerably less, and by far to control emphasis precisely.

Form
UsePatternExample
Core formThe + comparative, the + comparativeThe more we invest, the more resilient the system becomes.
VariationNo more/less than + noun phraseNo fewer than fifty residents objected.
Advanced formFar/considerably/slightly + comparativeThe second method is considerably more accurate.

Use no fewer than with plural countable nouns and no less than with uncountable amounts.

Do not use double comparatives such as more better or more easier.

Examples
  1. The more we invest, the more resilient the system becomes.
  2. The less evidence we have, the more cautious we should be.
  3. No fewer than fifty residents objected.
  4. The second method is considerably more accurate.
  5. This option is by far the most practical.
  6. The problem is far more complex than expected.
  7. No less than half the budget was spent on maintenance.
  8. The earlier the warning is issued, the better the response will be.
Common Mistakes