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Inferiority:
less
+
adjective
+
than

Presentation / Objective


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We use comparatives in English when we want to mention the differences between the two objects, places or people. Comparatives have different functions and structure: emphasising superiority, equality and inequality.

Hamburguers

In this section, you will focus on learning how to establish relations of inequality between some objects, places and people to talk about facts and your own opinions.


In the beginning, you will find a short explanation about the function and the use of the comparatives of inequality, as well as examples. Then, a reading activity is given to identify some comparisons. Next, you will listen to two different conversations and answer some questions. You will have the opportunity to practice this structure by ordering sentences and writing your text. Finally, you will strengthen your learning by recording a speaking exercise.

Do not forget that knowing how to express superiority is not enough, so learning this topic is essential.

Objective

By the end of this topic you will:
Use comparisons between different people, objects and places through comparative adjectives and the structure “less than”, to establish relationships of inequality.

Content

less+ adjective + than

Comparatives are normally used to state superiority when you want to say that something is “more” than another. However, you can also use them to talk about inequality.


For example:

1. Forests are less visited than beaches.
That means that people prefer going to the beach.

2. Teachers are less paid than politicians.
It means that the politicians earn more money.

3. K2 is less high than Mount Everest.
Because the Everest is the highest mountain in the world.

When using comparatives of superiority, the adjectives could be modified, depending on the number of syllables they have. In the case, of inequality, the structure is always the same.

Important: Do not forget that you have to use the correct form of the verb to be as well. am/ is/ are.

Examples

Reading

Activity 1

Choosing the correct major

To identify the relations of inferiority between two things, people or places, you have to pay attention to the adjectives that are being used. After that, you can compare.
Read the following texts and choose the correct person for each statement. Tick on the right sentence for each of the characters, N for Nataly, S for Sharon or B for both.

Next year I will go to the university, but I’m not very excited because I’m not sure about what to study.

I have been thinking of Art, althoug my parents say that it is useless and that I won't find a job easily.

They want me to study medicine, but I consider that it is too complicated for me. Besides, it will take me ages to finish the major. However, becoming a veterinarian sounds like a good idea, I love animals. In my city, there are no many vets around; nevertheless, no branch of medicine is as important for me as Art, I still want to be an artist.

Sharon

I am ready to start University, and study medicine. Although I know, it will be a challenge because it is so difficult I still want to be a doctor.

I have a friend, and she studies Art. At first, I thought it was useless and hard for her to get a job. She has received many job offers; contrary to my sister, who is a veterinarian. She enjoys staying with animals, but she hasn’t found a job yet, there are many vets around here.

Anyway, I look forward to going to University next year. It will be great!

 

Listening

Activity 2

Let’s go on vacation

Sometimes you need to make decisions so, analysing the details and comparing the characteristics of every option could be useful.

Listen to the conversation and answer the questions using the correct structure of the comparatives of inequality (the adjective is already given).

New York

Pewny, M. (2015). New York. Retrieved from: https://pixabay.com/es/nueva-york-horizonte-668616/

audio



Listening

Activity 3

The right flight

Comparatives of inequality could be used for talking about the most common things or situations. For example, when considering options to save some money.

Listen to the conversation and complete the sentences using comparatives of inequality.

Opera in Sydney

Jansen, p. (2015). Opera. Retrieved from: https://pixabay.com/es/sydney-%C3%B3pera-casa-australia-363244/

audio


Writing

Activity 4

Is it the correct structure?

Talking about inequality is not too difficult. You always use the same structure, and you do not have to modify any word. In the following activity order the elements following the inequality form.

 


Writing

Activity 5

Send me an e-mail

You can also use the inequality to describe and talk about people, compare their characteristics and personality using the same structure.

You have received an e-mail from a friend who is at the University, write back to your friend giving the information she wants to know. Use the comparatives of inequality.

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Before you write your description, read the rubrics to know the elements required in this task.

Now read the example and use it as a guide to write your description.

Hello Emily

Wow, your friends seem to be interesting. I guess Itzel is less tall than her sister, I can see that in their profile.
My new classmates are nice.
My group is less big than others but people in my group are less angry than most of the people around.
In my group Erika is less friendly. She is less relaxed and I think it is because she has a tough life.
Sandra is less serious but she is very responsible. Yus is less punctual than Dani. I love this group because they are happy and like work. I couldn’t have a better team.

Greetings
Janeth

Speaking

Activity 6

It’s your turn!

Every person has their point of view, that’s why you can also use the comparatives of inequality to give your own opinion about people, places or things.

Click to listen to the example of this activity.



Now look at the pictures and use adjectives to express comparisons of inequality.
When you finish, use the rubrics to evaluate yourself.

Self-assessment

Which is less?

 

Some things, people or situations are at a disadvantage compared to others. In the following exercise select the characteristic that differentiates each of the elements.

 

 

Which is the correct one?

 

Can you identify the correct structure in a sentence? Remember that when you compare there should be two elements. Let’s try! Choose the correct comparative of inequality.


References

Basic references

• Bon’s Tips. (2007). Comparison of inferiority. Website: http://mbonillo.xavierre.com/gramatica/adjectives4.html
• Ejercicios Inglés Online. (SF). Comparative. Website: https://www.ejerciciosinglesonline.com/exercises-and-theory/grammar-exercises-and-theory/english-comparative-superlative/>
• British Counsil. (2017). Comparative and superlative. Website: https://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/es/english-grammar/adjectives/comparative-and-superlative-adjectives

Complementary references.

• Curso Online Gratuito. (2014). Write the Sentences Using the Comparative of Inferiority. URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s0MTELWyE4g
• Learn English with Julia. (2016). Grammar Lesson: Comparatives and Superlatives (Adjectives). URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QEHKbFciO9Y