How To Say "Than" In Spanish
When learning a new language, it is important to understand the nuances of common words and their usage. One such word is "than," which plays a crucial role in making comparisons. In this article, we will delve into the Spanish translation of "than," explore its meaning, and provide some examples to help you grasp its usage in different contexts.
What is "Than" in Spanish?
In Spanish, the word for "than" is que (IPA: /ke/), it is a versatile word that serves as a conjunction when making comparisons. Just like in English, "que" helps us express the relationship between two objects, persons, or ideas. However, it is essential to note that "que" has various regional equivalents, and its usage might differ across Spanish-speaking countries.
Meaning of "Than" in Spanish
When translating "than" into Spanish using "que," it's essential to understand its context-specific meaning. Here are some key points to consider:
Comparison: "Que" is primarily used to form comparative sentences, indicating that one object or person possesses a certain quality to a greater or lesser degree than another. For example:
- Ella es más alta que su hermana. (She is taller than her sister.)
- Los estudiantes son más inteligentes que el profesor. (The students are smarter than the professor.)
Equality: "Que" can also be used to express equality in comparisons. In this case, it signifies that both objects or persons have the same quality. For instance:
- Él es tan alto como su padre. (He is as tall as his father.)
- Ese libro es tan interesante como la película. (That book is as interesting as the movie.)
Superlatives: In some cases, "que" is used to compare two or more objects or persons, emphasizing the superiority or inferiority of one over the others. For example:
- Él es el más rápido de todos. (He is the fastest of all.)
- Esta es la mejor comida que he probado. (This is the best food I have ever tasted.)
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How to Say "Than" in Spanish: Sample Sentences
Here are five sample sentences you can use to say "than" in Spanish:
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Me gusta más el café que el té.
(I like coffee more than tea.)
-
Esta ciudad es más grande de lo que pensaba.
(This city is bigger than I thought.)
-
Prefiero el cine al teatro.
(I prefer movies to theater.)
-
El libro es más caro de lo que imaginaba.
(The book is more expensive than I imagined.)
-
Estoy más feliz ahora que antes.
(I am happier now than before.)
Conclusion
Understanding how to say "than" in Spanish is essential for effective communication and making comparisons. The word "que" serves as a versatile tool for expressing various types of comparisons, whether it be highlighting superiority, inferiority, or equality. By familiarizing yourself with the usage of "que" and its regional equivalents, you will be able to express comparisons accurately in Spanish. Remember to practice using "que" in context to become more comfortable with its application.