More detailed discussion on comparisons using adjectives and adverbs is covered in Grammar Module 05: Adjectives and Adverbs; however, in Long Conversations and Talks on the TOEFL, there are often more complicated comparisons being made that use. The following structures are some of those used to show more complex comparisons or preferences.
Comparatives
as + adjective / adverb + as
- According to some researchers the Kindle seems to be as popular now as books.
- The effect of the Kindle has not been as detrimental to reading habits as once forecast.
as + adjective + a / an noun + as
- The iPhone seems as obvious a necessity as a laptop was a few years ago.
such + a / an noun + as
- The rise of computer classes and electronic gadgets has not had such a negative effect on learning as some people predicted.
As / Like
As followed by a noun is used to give a description whereas like followed by a noun is used to make a comparison:
- She works at the art gallery as a guide. (she is a guide)
- Teenagers tend to eat like horses. (they have large appetites)
When making comparisons, like is usually followed by a noun phrase:
- When I first came to Vancouver, I felt like a fish out of water.
As if / As though
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