Comparative or Comparitive – Which is Correct?
When it comes to the English language, it’s no surprise that even native speakers often stumble upon confusing words and spellings. One such example is the use of “comparative” and “comparitive.” Although they might sound similar, only one is the correct form. So, let’s learn the intricacies of these two words and shed some light on which one should be used.
Without a doubt, the correct term is “comparative.” This form is used to describe the act of comparing two or more things, or the degree to which something is compared. It is a crucial concept in language and grammar, especially when discussing comparisons or writing essays. For instance, in the sentence “The second exercise was more difficult than the first,” the word “more difficult” is an example of a comparative form.
On the other hand, the term “comparitive” does not exist in standard English. It is simply an incorrect spelling and should be avoided. Using incorrect spellings can impact our credibility, especially in formal writing or when taking language proficiency exams, such as the IELTS.
To explain further, let’s consider some examples showcasing the proper use of “comparative.” When comparing two people based on their intelligence, we can say, “Mary is smarter than John.” Here, “smarter” is the comparative form of the adjective “smart,” indicating a higher degree of intelligence. Another example could be, “The blue dress is more beautiful than the green one.” In this sentence, “more beautiful” demonstrates a comparison between the two dresses, emphasizing a higher level of beauty for the blue dress.
It’s also worth noting that the comparative form can be used beyond adjectives. Adverbs and nouns can also be compared to convey a sense of superiority or inferiority. For instance, consider the sentence “She runs faster than him.” Here, “faster” is the comparative form of the adverb “fast,” indicating that the woman runs with greater speed compared to the man.
Moreover, understanding comparative grammar is crucial for achieving a high score on language proficiency exams like the IELTS. Test takers often encounter questions that require them to compare things or express degrees of difference. By mastering the correct usage of the comparative form, test takers can ensure they are using clear and accurate language in their writing and speaking tasks.
In conclusion, the correct form is “comparative” and not “comparitive.” It plays a vital role in expressing comparisons and degrees of difference in English. Incorrectly using the term “comparitive” can diminish our credibility and create confusion for the reader. So, let’s embrace the correct spelling and incorporate it into our everyday language. Remember, practice makes perfect, so keep comparing, keep improving, and keep conquering the English language!