The more…, the less…: describe linked changes

The idea

Begin each part with the + comparative expression: the longer …, the more nervous …. Adjectives, adverbs and quantities can all be compared. Keep ordinary statement order after the expression. Short forms can omit predictable words, as in The sooner, the better.

Examples

• The longer I waited, the more nervous I became.
• The more boxes we packed, the less empty space we had.
• The closer we look, the more cracks we can see.
• The smaller the pieces, the faster they dry.
• The more carefully I listened, the better I understood the story.
• The sooner you can confirm, the better.

Watch out

Do not replace either the with than or omit it in the full paired pattern. This construction is different from bigger and bigger, which describes one increasing quality. It does not require both changes to move in the same direction.

Try it yourself

1. Choose the correct option. The longer I waited, ___ nervous I became. (the more / more)

   Show answer or example answer

   the more

   Both halves need the + comparative. The second comparative phrase is the more nervous, not just more nervous.

2. Choose the correct option. The more boxes we packed, ___ empty space we had. (the less / the fewer)

   Show answer or example answer

   the less

   Space is uncountable in this meaning, so use the less empty space. Fewer goes with plural countable nouns.

3. Choose the correct option. The more carefully ___, the better I understood the story. (I listened / did I listen)

   Show answer or example answer

   I listened

   Use normal statement order I listened. The comparative phrase at the front does not call for question-style did I listen.

Use it today

Write two linked comparisons about packing or preparing a task. Make one connect two increases and the other an increase with a decrease. Identify what is changing in each half.