Avoid double, illogical, and unclear comparisons

Learning Objectives Identify double comparisons in sentences and correct them. Recognize illogical comparisons where unlike items are compared. Revise unclear or incomplete comparisons to ensure clarity. Differentiate between the correct use of comparative and superlative forms. Apply the rules of logical comparison to strengthen their own analytical and argumentative writing. Analyze sentences from literature for both correct and incorrect comparative structures. Have you ever heard someone say something is 'more better' or 'most bestest'? 🤔 While we know what they mean, these common errors can weaken your writing and make your arguments less convincing. This tutorial will teach you how to spot and fix three common comparison errors: double, illogical,...

TermDefinitionExample ComparisonThe process of evaluating two or more things by examining their similarities or differences. In grammar, this is often done using adjectives and adverbs.The protagonist is braver than the antagonist. Comparative FormThe form of an adjective or adverb used to compare two things. It is typically formed by adding '-er' to short words or using 'more' before longer words.faster, more intelligent Superlative FormThe form of an adjective or adverb used to compare three or more things. It is typically formed by adding '-est' to short words or using 'most' before longer words.fastest, most intelligent Double ComparisonA grammatical error where both the '-er/-est' suffix and the word 'more/most' are used to...

The 'One or the Other' Rule Use EITHER the suffix '-er'/'est' OR the word 'more'/'most' to form a comparison, but never both. This rule applies to all comparative and superlative adjectives and adverbs. For one-syllable words, usually add '-er' or '-est' (e.g., smarter). For words with three or more syllables, use 'more' or 'most' (e.g., more beautiful). For two-syllable words, the rule can vary, but never combine the two forms. The 'Apples to Apples' Rule Ensure the items being compared are of the same kind or category. You can't logically compare a person's actions to another person's appearance, or a book's plot to the author. Make sure the comparison is...