How do I know if an adjective accepts comparisons in both ways?

Posted on August 30, 2009 by admin

adjectives that can form comparisons in both ways:

adj+ER THAN and MORE adj THAN?

example:

nearer than and more near than

Is there a list?

More near than is incorrect.

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4 Responses to How do I know if an adjective accepts comparisons in both ways?

  1. Johnny D says:
    August 30, 2009 at 7:21 pm

    More near than is incorrect.
    References :

  2. JON B says:
    August 30, 2009 at 7:32 pm

    I think my dog farted sorry I know the answer but I have to open the window be right back
    References :

  3. tess says:
    August 30, 2009 at 8:16 pm

    Some one may have compiled a list somewhere, but most people just know intuitively from growing up with the language.

    Here are a few common adjectives in the proper form . . .

    larger than
    taller than
    bigger than
    higher than
    more expensive than
    nearer than (<<< this is the proper form for your example, I would NEVER say "more near than")
    closer than
    further than
    sweeter than
    more sour than
    spicier than, more spicy than (<< Hey, one that is both!)
    furrier than, more furry than (I’m thinking of more!!)
    Fuzzier than, more fuzzy than
    funnier than, more funny than

    You do not have to have the word "than" present when saying "more adj." that is only necessary when the compared noun is present.
    E.g.:
    Curry is more spicy than chili.
    Curry is more spicy.

    Sorry I can’t help more than that.
    References :

  4. formeng says:
    August 30, 2009 at 8:25 pm

    Hi,
    Most native English speakers develop an intuitive grasp of which to use, but there are some occasions where doubt arises. To give some idea of the problems;
    One would say happier than, but more boring than; harder than, but more difficult than. Of course, never say more happier than.
    Frankly, if you’re having trouble with a particular situation, your best bet is to consult a good dictionary.

    FE
    References :