Infinitive After Comparative Adjectives Grammar Explained

This question delves into a nuanced area of English grammar, specifically the use of infinitives following comparative adjectives. Comparative adjectives, such as more difficult, easier, better, and worse, are used to compare two or more things. The question arises when we consider whether an infinitive phrase (a phrase beginning with to followed by a verb) can be used after such adjectives in a grammatically sound way. Let's explore this by examining the structure of comparative sentences and the role of infinitives within them.

Understanding Comparative Structures

At its core, a comparative sentence establishes a comparison between two entities. This comparison is often facilitated by the use of than, which acts as a conjunction introducing the second element being compared. The basic structure is as follows:

Subject + Verb + Comparative Adjective + than + Element being compared

For example:

• This book is more interesting than that movie.
• Running is faster than walking.
• Learning French is easier than learning Mandarin.

In these examples, the elements being compared are nouns (book and movie) or gerunds (running and walking, learning French and learning Mandarin). However, the question at hand is whether an infinitive phrase can also serve as this element being compared. The answer, while generally yes, comes with certain caveats and considerations.

The Role of Infinitives

Infinitives can function as nouns, adjectives, or adverbs within a sentence. When used as nouns, they can act as subjects, objects, or complements. For instance:

• To err is human. (Subject)
• I like to read. (Object)
• My goal is to travel the world. (Complement)

In the context of comparative sentences, the infinitive phrase typically functions as a noun, representing an action or activity being compared. This is where the initial example, It is more difficult than to strip the thorns off the tragacanth, comes into play.

Analyzing the Example Sentence

Let's dissect the original sentence: It is more difficult than to strip the thorns off the tragacanth. This sentence, presented as an Arabic proverb, suggests a comparison between an implied task and the act of removing thorns from a tragacanth (a thorny shrub). The structure aligns with the comparative form:

• It (Subject) is (Verb) more difficult (Comparative Adjective) than (Conjunction) to strip the thorns off the tragacanth (Infinitive Phrase as Element Being Compared)

Grammatically, the sentence appears sound. The infinitive phrase to strip the thorns off the tragacanth functions as the element being compared to an implied task (the it in the sentence). However, the sentence's clarity and stylistic elegance can be improved by considering alternative phrasing.

Refining the Sentence for Clarity

While grammatically correct, the original sentence might sound somewhat awkward to a modern English speaker. This is primarily due to the slightly archaic feel of using an infinitive phrase directly after than in this particular construction. More common and stylistically preferred alternatives exist. One way to enhance clarity is to rephrase the sentence using a gerund (the -ing form of a verb) or a noun phrase:

• It is more difficult than stripping the thorns off the tragacanth.
• It is more difficult than the task of stripping the thorns off the tragacanth.

Both of these revisions maintain the original meaning while sounding more natural and fluent in contemporary English. The gerund stripping and the noun phrase the task of stripping the thorns serve the same comparative function as the infinitive phrase, but they do so in a manner that aligns more closely with current idiomatic usage.

Further Examples and Considerations

To solidify the understanding of using infinitives after comparative adjectives, let's consider additional examples:

• It is better to give than to receive.
• Speaking in public is more nerve-wracking than to write an email.

In the first example, the sentence compares the act of giving with the act of receiving, both expressed as infinitives. This sentence is grammatically correct and stylistically acceptable. However, the second example, similar to the original proverb, sounds slightly less natural. A more fluent revision might be:

• Speaking in public is more nerve-wracking than writing an email.

This highlights a crucial point: while infinitives can follow comparative adjectives, the resulting sentence should be evaluated for its overall clarity and stylistic appeal. In some cases, using a gerund or a noun phrase will yield a more effective and natural-sounding sentence.

When to Use Infinitives After Comparative Adjectives

There isn't a strict rule prohibiting the use of infinitives after comparative adjectives. However, there are guidelines and preferences that can help you make informed choices. Consider these points:

1. Parallel Structure: If you are comparing two actions, using infinitives for both can create a parallel structure that enhances clarity and elegance. For example:

   • It is more important to understand the concept than to memorize the formula.

2. Formal Tone: In certain contexts, particularly those with a formal or literary tone, infinitives after comparative adjectives may be more acceptable. The original proverb, with its slightly archaic flavor, fits this category.

3. Clarity and Flow: The most important consideration is whether the infinitive construction enhances or detracts from the sentence's overall clarity and flow. If the sentence sounds awkward or convoluted, consider using a gerund or a noun phrase instead.

4. Audience and Context: Think about your audience and the context in which you are writing. A more formal audience may be more receptive to infinitive constructions, while a general audience might prefer simpler phrasing.

In summary, while grammatically permissible, the use of infinitives after comparative adjectives requires careful consideration. Pay attention to the parallel structure, the tone of your writing, and, most importantly, the clarity and flow of the sentence. When in doubt, opting for a gerund or a noun phrase is often a safer choice for modern English usage.

Deeper Dive into Comparative Adjective Usage

To further understand the nuances of using infinitives after comparative adjectives, it's beneficial to explore the broader landscape of comparative adjective usage. Comparative adjectives, as the name suggests, play a critical role in making comparisons, and their correct usage is fundamental to clear and effective communication. Let's delve into various aspects of comparative adjective usage to provide a more comprehensive understanding.

Formation of Comparative Adjectives

Comparative adjectives are typically formed in one of two ways:

1. Adding "-er" to the Adjective: This method applies to most one-syllable and some two-syllable adjectives. For example:

   • Tall becomes taller.
   • Short becomes shorter.
   • Happy becomes happier.
   • Simple becomes simpler.

2. Using "more" Before the Adjective: This is generally used for adjectives with two or more syllables, as well as some two-syllable adjectives that don't easily take the "-er" suffix. For example:

   • Beautiful becomes more beautiful.
   • Difficult becomes more difficult.
   • Interesting becomes more interesting.
   • Careful becomes more careful.

There are, of course, exceptions and irregular forms. For instance, good becomes better, bad becomes worse, and far can become either farther or further. Understanding these formation rules is crucial for constructing grammatically correct comparative sentences.

Common Comparative Structures

Beyond the basic structure of Subject + Verb + Comparative Adjective + than + Element being compared, several common comparative structures exist in English. These structures allow for more nuanced comparisons and can impact the choice of whether to use an infinitive, gerund, or noun phrase after the comparative adjective.

Parallel Comparisons

As mentioned earlier, parallel comparisons involve comparing two similar elements, often actions. This is where infinitives can shine, creating a balanced and elegant sentence structure. For example:

• It is more rewarding to help others than to focus solely on oneself.
• It is easier to criticize than to create.

In these examples, the parallel structure of to help others and to focus solely on oneself, as well as to criticize and to create, enhances the clarity and impact of the comparison.

Comparisons with Noun Phrases

Often, comparisons involve nouns or noun phrases. In such cases, using an infinitive directly after than may sound less natural. Instead, a gerund or a noun phrase is often preferred. For example:

• This project is more complex than the previous one.
• Learning to play the piano is more challenging than learning the guitar.
• The cost of living in New York is higher than in most other cities.

In these sentences, the comparison is between noun phrases (this project and the previous one, learning to play the piano and learning the guitar, the cost of living in New York and an implied cost of living in other cities), making the use of noun phrases or gerunds after than the more natural choice.

Comparisons with Pronouns

Comparisons can also involve pronouns, either explicitly or implicitly. When comparing actions involving pronouns, it's crucial to maintain grammatical correctness and clarity. For example:

• She is more experienced than I (am).
• He is taller than she (is).

In these sentences, the pronouns I and she are being compared, and the verbs in parentheses are often omitted for brevity. However, when the comparison involves an action, an infinitive or gerund may be used, depending on the context and desired emphasis.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Several common mistakes can occur when using comparative adjectives, and being aware of these pitfalls can help you write more accurately and effectively.

Double Comparatives

One common error is the use of double comparatives, where both "-er" and "more" are used to form the comparative. For example, saying "more taller" or "more easier" is incorrect. The correct forms are simply "taller" and "easier."

Illogical Comparisons

Another mistake is making illogical comparisons, where the elements being compared are not truly comparable. For example, saying "The economy of this country is better than last year" is illogical because you are comparing the economy to a time period rather than another economy. The correct phrasing would be "The economy of this country is better than it was last year" or "The economy of this country is better than the economy of other countries."

Misuse of "than" and "then"

"Than" is a conjunction used in comparisons, while "then" is an adverb indicating time. Confusing these two words is a common error. Remember that "than" is used to compare, while "then" is used to indicate when something happened.

Lack of Parallelism

As discussed earlier, maintaining parallel structure is crucial for clarity. When comparing actions, ensure that the grammatical forms are consistent. For example, avoid sentences like "It is more enjoyable to read a book than watching television." The correct phrasing would be "It is more enjoyable to read a book than to watch television" or "Reading a book is more enjoyable than watching television."

By understanding these common mistakes and how to avoid them, you can ensure that your comparative sentences are grammatically sound and convey your intended meaning clearly.

The Nuances of Using Infinitives

Returning to the original question about using infinitives after comparative adjectives, it's important to reiterate that while grammatically permissible, the stylistic impact should always be considered. The choice between an infinitive, a gerund, or a noun phrase often depends on the specific context and the desired emphasis.

Infinitives for Emphasis

In some cases, using an infinitive after a comparative adjective can add emphasis to the action being compared. For example:

• It is more important to understand the underlying principles than to simply memorize the formulas.

The infinitive to understand emphasizes the importance of comprehension over rote memorization. This construction can be particularly effective when highlighting the significance of a particular action or concept.

Gerunds for General Activities

Gerunds, on the other hand, often convey a sense of general activity or ongoing action. When the comparison involves activities in general, gerunds may be the more natural choice. For example:

• Swimming is more enjoyable than running.
• Reading fiction is more stimulating than watching television.

In these sentences, the gerunds swimming and reading represent general activities, making them a fitting choice for the comparative structure.

Noun Phrases for Specific Instances

Noun phrases are typically used when comparing specific instances or entities. As discussed earlier, this is often the preferred choice when comparing concrete objects or specific actions. For example:

• This book is more insightful than that one.
• The cost of this project is higher than the initial estimate.

By considering the nuances of infinitives, gerunds, and noun phrases, you can make informed decisions about which form best suits your specific comparative sentence.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the use of infinitives after comparative adjectives is grammatically correct but requires careful consideration of stylistic impact and clarity. While there are no strict rules prohibiting this construction, it's essential to evaluate whether an infinitive, gerund, or noun phrase best serves the sentence's overall effectiveness. Pay attention to parallel structure, context, audience, and the desired emphasis to ensure that your comparative sentences are both accurate and compelling. Remember, the goal is to communicate your message clearly and effectively, and the choice of grammatical form should always support that objective.

By mastering the nuances of comparative adjective usage, you can enhance the precision and elegance of your writing, making your communication more impactful and persuasive. Whether you choose an infinitive, a gerund, or a noun phrase, the key is to make a conscious decision based on the principles of good grammar and effective communication.