beginnerA1 · TOCFL a1comparisongrammar
比较
Pattern
Subject + 比较 + adjective
Key words
Core idea
比较 softens an adjective by making an implicit comparison. It often means “relatively,” “rather,” or “comparatively.”
The comparison target does not have to be stated. The listener understands that the speaker is comparing with an expectation, another option, or the general situation.
Compare with direct comparison
Use 比 when both sides of the comparison are named. Use 比较 when only the quality is stated and the comparison is backgrounded.
Examples
今天比较热。
Jīntiān bǐjiào rè.
Today is relatively hot.
这家店比较便宜。
Zhè jiā diàn bǐjiào piányí.
This shop is relatively cheap.
我比较喜欢喝茶。
Wǒ bǐjiào xǐhuan hē chá.
I rather like drinking tea.
Common mistakes
Avoid
今天比较。
Use
今天比较热。
比较 needs a following adjective or predicate to compare implicitly.