How to use French comparison words

Comparing things in French is essential for expressing preferences and describing differences. Let's explore the main comparison words and how to use them effectively.

Basic Comparison Structure

In French, comparisons typically follow this structure:

[Subject] + [verb] + [comparison word] + [adjective/adverb] + que + [object of comparison]

Using "Plus que" (More than)

"Plus que" is used to express superiority:

• Paris est plus grand que Lyon. (Paris is bigger than Lyon.)
• Elle parle plus rapidement que moi. (She speaks faster than me.)

Using "Moins que" (Less than)

"Moins que" expresses inferiority:

• Le café est moins cher que le thé. (Coffee is less expensive than tea.)
• Il travaille moins que son frère. (He works less than his brother.)

Using "Aussi...que" (As...as)

"Aussi...que" indicates equality:

• Ma voiture est aussi rapide que la tienne. (My car is as fast as yours.)
• Il est aussi intelligent que sa sœur. (He is as intelligent as his sister.)

Irregular Comparisons

Some adjectives have irregular comparative forms:

• Bon (good) → meilleur (better)
• Mauvais (bad) → pire (worse)

Example: Ce restaurant est meilleur que celui-là. (This restaurant is better than that one.)

Practice Examples

Try forming your own comparisons using these structures:

1. Your friend's dog vs. your cat (size)
2. French cuisine vs. Italian cuisine (taste)
3. Summer vs. winter (temperature)

Remember, mastering comparisons will greatly enhance your ability to express opinions and describe the world around you in French!