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Comparative: meaning, definitions and examples

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comparative

 

[ kəmˈpærətɪv ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

degree

Comparative is used to describe the form of an adjective or adverb that indicates a higher degree of quality or quantity than the positive form. It is typically formed by adding "-er" to the end of the word or by using the word "more" before the adjective or adverb.

Synonyms

greater, higher, superior.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
comparative

Used when comparing two or more things to show their differences or similarities.

  • In comparative studies, scientists analyze the data from different countries
higher

Used when referring to something being above or beyond a standard level, height, or amount; often implies elevation.

  • The mountain's peak is much higher than we expected
greater

Used when one thing exceeds another in size, number, intensity or degree.

  • The new processor offers greater speed and efficiency
superior

Used when one thing is better than another in quality, status, or ability; often carries a sense of excellence.

  • This brand is known for its superior craftsmanship and durability

Examples of usage

  • He is taller than his brother.
  • She runs faster than me.
  • This book is more interesting than the one I read last week.

Translations

Translations of the word "comparative" in other languages:

🇵🇹 comparativo

🇮🇳 तुलनात्मक

🇩🇪 vergleichend

🇮🇩 komparatif

🇺🇦 порівняльний

🇵🇱 porównawczy

🇯🇵 比較的

🇫🇷 comparatif

🇪🇸 comparativo

🇹🇷 karşılaştırmalı

🇰🇷 비교의

🇸🇦 مقارن

🇨🇿 srovnávací

🇸🇰 porovnávací

🇨🇳 比较的

🇸🇮 primerjalni

🇮🇸 samanburðar

🇰🇿 салыстырмалы

🇬🇪 შედარებითი

🇦🇿 müqayisəli

🇲🇽 comparativo

Etymology

The word 'comparative' originated from the Latin word 'comparativus', which is derived from the verb 'comparare' meaning 'to liken, compare'. The use of the comparative form in language dates back to ancient times when people compared things and qualities. Over the years, the concept of comparison has evolved, leading to the development of grammar rules related to comparatives.

See also: comparable, comparably, comparatively, comparator, compare, comparer, comparison, comparisons, incomparable.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,442, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.