Advanced comparisons
Never … a more, nowhere near as, by far the, the more … the more, and twice as … as.
C1 comparisons go beyond 'bigger than'. You need ways to make a difference bigger or smaller, and a few fixed patterns that Part 4 loves.
Big and small differences
Superlatives
Other patterns
How it comes up in Part 4
In Part 4 you complete the second sentence with the key word, so that it means the same as the first one (3–6 words).
NEVER
I have never read a more boring book.
Superlative + ever = never + a more.
NEAR
The second film was nowhere near as good as the first one.
Nowhere near as … as = much less … than.
FAR
This hotel is by far the best in the city.
By far + the + superlative.
Common mistakes
- ✗ The more you practise, more you improve.✓ The more you practise, the more you improve.Both halves need 'the'.
- ✗ It was more cheap than I expected.✓ It was cheaper than I expected.Short adjectives take -er.
- ✗ This is by far best option.✓ This is by far the best option.By far + the + superlative.
When the first sentence has 'much', 'a lot' or 'far' with a comparative, think 'nowhere near as' or 'not nearly as' – but turn the comparison round and use the right subject!
Quick check
Complete the second sentence so that it means the same as the first. Use the key word and write 3–6 words.
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