5.13.2 Grammar explanation comparisons of equality
The next grammatical form we will see in this chapter is a comparison of equality. These forms are used to say that two things are same or share the same characteristics.
Grammatically the forms are:
Tanto/a/os/as como
tan como
When we compare nouns, we use the first form and “tanto” is an adjective so that means that we need to pay attention to agreement!
Let’s see some examples:
Esta zapatería venda tantos zapatos como la que está enfrente.
¡Espera! ¡Ella tiene tanta prisa como tú!
El corre tantas millas como elle.
We also use this form in the masculine singular to compare verbs:
Ella baile tanto como su vecina.
In order to compare adverbs or adjectives, we need the “tan” form. “Tan” is an adverb so it has only one form:
Comparing adjectives: Esta casa es tan bonita como la otra.
Comparing adverbs: El corre tan rápido como elle.
Another way to compare
Another comparison structure is “así como”. This is sometimes used with “tanto” but not always.
In the above tweet from the RAE, we can see that two people are receiving the same treatment.
Activity to practice tan/tanto como/así como
- Correct the sentences if necessary:
- Activity: Students argue which of two options is better or more interesting, using “tan” and “tanto como” in their arguments.
Example: Debate over which is better: soccer or basketball. “El fútbol es ___ emocionante ___ el baloncesto.”
a. Compara cual es mejor, el poema IX, Sobre ángeles o Paraíso negro?
b. Compara los documentales, Viaje a los pueblos fumigados y 59 balas.
