Question 1

What words can I use to make a comparative stronger?

Accepted Answer

To show a large difference, put "much," "far," or "a lot" before the comparative: "much taller," "far more expensive," "a lot better." These three have the same meaning, but "much" is slightly more formal, "a lot" is more informal, and "far" works in all registers. You can also use "significantly" in formal writing: "significantly more effective." For emphasis or surprise, use "even": "It's even harder than I thought!" All of these modify both short (-er) and long (more + adjective) comparatives. Never use "very" — "very taller" and "very more expensive" are always wrong. Use "very much" instead for emphasis: "very much better."

Question 2

What is the difference between much and a lot with comparatives?

Accepted Answer

"Much" and "a lot" mean the same thing when modifying comparatives — both show a big difference: "much taller" = "a lot taller." The difference is register: "much" is more common in formal and written English, while "a lot" is more natural in everyday conversation. In a Cambridge B2 essay, "much more effective" sounds better than "a lot more effective." In speaking, "a lot cheaper" sounds more natural than "much cheaper." "Far" sits between the two — it works in both formal and informal English: "far better," "far more interesting." For examinations, all three are correct, but choosing the right register shows language awareness.

Question 3

Can I say very more expensive?

Accepted Answer

No — "very" cannot be used with comparatives. "Very more expensive," "very taller," and "very better" are all wrong. Use "much" instead: "much more expensive," "much taller," "much better." The reason is that "very" modifies base adjectives ("very tall," "very expensive") while "much" modifies comparative adjectives ("much taller," "much more expensive"). However, you can say "very much" for emphasis: "very much better" is correct and adds strong emphasis. This is one of the most common mistakes at B1 level, and Cambridge examiners specifically look for the correct use of comparative modifiers in speaking and writing assessments.

Degree Modifiers with Comparatives Exercises

All 20 questions

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