Understanding Formas Comparativas in Portuguese Grammar

Formas Comparativas, or comparative forms, are an essential aspect of the Portuguese language. They allow speakers to compare the qualities, quantities, or states of different things. In this article, we will explore the various types of comparative forms in the Portuguese language and provide examples for each. By the end of this comprehensive guide, you will have a better understanding of how to use comparative forms in Portuguese grammar accurately.

Three Main Types of Formas Comparativas

There are three main types of comparative forms in Portuguese grammar: Comparative of Equality, Comparative of Superiority, and Comparative of Inferiority. Let’s discuss each type in detail.

Comparative of Equality

The Comparative of Equality is used to indicate that two elements possess an equal quality or characteristic. This form is constructed using the adverb “tão” (as) before the adjective, and “como” (as) after the adjective. Here’s a simple formula for using the Comparative of Equality:

Subject 1 + verb + tão + adjective + como + Subject 2

Here are some examples of the Comparative of Equality in use:

Ele é tão alto como o irmão dele. (He is as tall as his brother.)
Ela é tão inteligente como a amiga dela. (She is as smart as her friend.)

Comparative of Superiority

The Comparative of Superiority is used to express that one element possesses a higher degree of a certain quality or characteristic compared to the other. The formula for this type is:

Subject 1 + verb + mais + adjective + (do) que + Subject 2

It is important to note that the preposition “do” is only used when followed by a definite article (o, a, os, as). Here are some examples of Comparative of Superiority:

A casa dele é mais bonita que a minha. (His house is more beautiful than mine.)
Ele fala mais rápido do que o professor. (He speaks faster than the teacher.)

Comparative of Inferiority

The Comparative of Inferiority, on the other hand, denotes that one element possesses a lesser degree of a certain quality or characteristic compared to the other. The formula for constructing these sentences is:

Subject 1 + verb + menos + adjective + (do) que + Subject 2

Just like in the Comparative of Superiority, the preposition “do” is used only when followed by a definite article. Here are some examples:

Ele é menos interessado na aula do que ela. (He is less interested in the class than she is.)
As férias dela são menos longas que as suas. (Her vacations are shorter than his.)

Irregular Comparatives in Portuguese

Just like in English, there are some irregular comparatives in the Portuguese language. These are adjectives that don’t follow the regular patterns of adding “mais” or “menos” and have unique comparative forms. Some examples include:

Bom (good) – Melhor (better)
Mau (bad) – Pior (worse)
Grande (big) – Maior (bigger)
Pequeno (small) – Menor (smaller)

These irregular comparatives follow this formula:

Subject 1 + verb + irregular comparative + (do) que + Subject 2

It’s essential to learn these irregular forms as they are widely used in daily conversations.

In conclusion, understanding Formas Comparativas in Portuguese grammar is fundamental to accurately express comparisons. By mastering the different comparative types and their respective formulas, you will enhance your fluency in the Portuguese language. Additionally, learning the irregular comparatives and their usage will help you improve your overall language skills.