Double comparatives are a useful grammatical structure to master for the IELTS exam, particularly in the writing and speaking sections. They allow you to express a cause-and-effect relationship between two things in a concise and sophisticated manner.
Example Sentences:
- The more you practice, the better your English will become.
- The higher the demand for a product, the higher the price will be.
- The more time you spend planning your essay, the less time you’ll need for editing.
As you can see, each sentence uses two comparative clauses to show a parallel change between two actions or states.
Understanding Double Comparatives
Double comparatives follow a specific structure: The + comparative adjective/adverb + Subject + Verb, the + comparative adjective/adverb + Subject + Verb. They demonstrate a correlation where one action directly influences another. Mastering this structure not only enhances your grammatical range but also adds a layer of fluency and naturalness to your English.
Applying Double Comparatives in IELTS
1. Writing Task 2
Double comparatives are particularly beneficial in IELTS Writing Task 2, where you are required to present and support your opinions on various topics.
Example:
“Some believe that the internet has made us more isolated than ever. However, I argue that the more we connect online, the greater the potential for building meaningful relationships across geographical boundaries.”
In this example, the double comparative effectively emphasizes the link between online interaction and the possibility of forming strong relationships.
2. Speaking Part 2 and 3
Similarly, in the Speaking test, using double comparatives can help you express your ideas more clearly and persuasively.
Example:
Examiner: Do you think technology has made our lives easier?
Candidate: Absolutely. The more advanced technology becomes, the more convenient our lives are. We can now communicate instantly, access information readily, and even automate daily tasks with just a few clicks.
Here, the double comparative allows the candidate to articulate their viewpoint on technology’s impact on our daily lives.
Mastering Double Comparatives for a High Band Score
Using more complex grammatical structures like double comparatives accurately and appropriately can significantly contribute to achieving a higher band score. It demonstrates your command of the English language and your ability to express ideas effectively.
1. Vary Your Language:
Instead of consistently using “more” or “-er” for comparisons, experiment with irregular comparatives like “better” (good), “worse” (bad), or “further” (far). This demonstrates a wider vocabulary range.
Example:
- The farther you travel, the more you learn about different cultures.
- The better your understanding of grammar, the easier it will be to write complex sentences.
2. Emphasize the Correlation:
Use adverbs like “directly,” “proportionally,” or “inversely” to highlight the direct relationship between the two clauses.
Example:
- The harder you study, the more directly it impacts your exam results.
- The more you read, the more proportionally your vocabulary expands.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
- Incorrect Comparative Form: Remember to use the comparative form for both adjectives and adverbs.
Incorrect: The more you practice, the good you become.
Correct: The more you practice, the better you become.
- Omitting “The”: Do not forget to include “the” before both comparative adjectives or adverbs.
Incorrect: More you earn, more you spend.
Correct: The more you earn, the more you spend.
Conclusion
Mastering double comparatives can be a valuable asset for your IELTS preparation. By understanding their structure, practicing their application, and familiarizing yourself with common errors, you can confidently incorporate them into your writing and speaking, thereby showcasing a wider range of grammar and enhancing your overall performance on the exam.