Mastering the nuances of comparatives in German can be a bit of a challenge, especially when it comes to using “als” and “wie.” These two little words are essential for forming comparisons, and understanding their correct usage can significantly improve your German language skills. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide to using “als” and “wie” in comparatives, including when to use each one, common pitfalls to avoid, and practical examples to solidify your understanding.
The Basics of Comparatives in German
Before diving into the specifics of “als” and “wie,” it’s crucial to understand the basics of comparatives in German. Comparatives are used to compare two entities, indicating that one is greater, lesser, or equal to the other in some way. In German, comparatives often involve adjective or adverb forms, which change to reflect the comparison.
For example:
– **Positive form**: schnell (fast)
– **Comparative form**: schneller (faster)
– **Superlative form**: am schnellsten (fastest)
In German, when forming comparisons, you’ll often use “als” or “wie” to make the comparison clear. But the tricky part is knowing when to use which.
Using “als” in Comparatives
The word “als” is used in German to compare differences between two entities. Specifically, it is used when one thing is **greater** or **lesser** than another. This is akin to the English word “than.”
### Examples of “als” in Comparatives
1. **Er ist größer als ich.**
– Translation: He is taller than I am.
– Explanation: Here, “größer” is the comparative form of “groß” (tall), and “als” is used to indicate that he is taller than I am.
2. **Dieses Auto ist schneller als das andere.**
– Translation: This car is faster than the other one.
– Explanation: “Schneller” is the comparative form of “schnell” (fast), and “als” is used to show that this car is faster than the other car.
3. **Sie ist älter als ihr Bruder.**
– Translation: She is older than her brother.
– Explanation: “Älter” is the comparative form of “alt” (old), and “als” is used to compare her age with her brother’s age.
### Common Mistakes with “als”
One common mistake is using “als” when comparing things that are equal. Remember, “als” is only for inequalities. For example, saying “Er ist so groß als ich” is incorrect. The correct form should be “Er ist so groß wie ich” (He is as tall as I am).
Using “wie” in Comparatives
The word “wie” is used in German to compare two entities that are **equal** in some way. This is similar to the English word “as.”
### Examples of “wie” in Comparatives
1. **Er ist so groß wie ich.**
– Translation: He is as tall as I am.
– Explanation: “So groß” is the positive form of “groß” (tall), and “wie” is used to indicate that he is as tall as I am.
2. **Dieses Auto ist genauso schnell wie das andere.**
– Translation: This car is just as fast as the other one.
– Explanation: “Genauso schnell” is the positive form of “schnell” (fast), and “wie” is used to show that this car is just as fast as the other car.
3. **Sie ist so alt wie ihr Bruder.**
– Translation: She is as old as her brother.
– Explanation: “So alt” is the positive form of “alt” (old), and “wie” is used to compare her age with her brother’s age.
### Common Mistakes with “wie”
A frequent error is using “wie” when comparing things that are not equal. For instance, saying “Dieses Auto ist schneller wie das andere” is incorrect. The correct form should be “Dieses Auto ist schneller als das andere” (This car is faster than the other one).
Special Cases and Advanced Usage
While the basic rules for “als” and “wie” are straightforward, there are some special cases and advanced usage scenarios that can trip up even advanced learners.
### Comparisons with Negatives
When making negative comparisons, the structure can change slightly. For instance:
– **Er ist nicht so groß wie ich.**
– Translation: He is not as tall as I am.
– Explanation: “Nicht so groß” is used to indicate that he is not as tall as I am, and “wie” is used because the comparison involves equality in the negative sense.
### Comparisons with Adverbs
Adverbs can also be compared using “als” and “wie.” For example:
– **Sie läuft schneller als ich.**
– Translation: She runs faster than I do.
– Explanation: “Schneller” is the comparative form of “schnell” (fast), and “als” is used to indicate that she runs faster than I do.
– **Er spricht so schnell wie sie.**
– Translation: He speaks as quickly as she does.
– Explanation: “So schnell” is the positive form of “schnell” (quickly), and “wie” is used to show that he speaks as quickly as she does.
### Comparisons with Quantities
When comparing quantities, “als” and “wie” can also be used. For instance:
– **Ich habe mehr Bücher als du.**
– Translation: I have more books than you.
– Explanation: “Mehr” is the comparative form of “viel” (many), and “als” is used to compare the quantities.
– **Ich habe so viele Bücher wie du.**
– Translation: I have as many books as you.
– Explanation: “So viele” is the positive form of “viel” (many), and “wie” is used to show equality in quantity.
Practice Makes Perfect
The best way to master the use of “als” and “wie” in comparatives is through consistent practice. Here are a few exercises you can try:
### Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks
Fill in the blanks with either “als” or “wie” to complete the sentences correctly.
1. Er ist größer ___ ich.
2. Sie ist genauso alt ___ ihre Schwester.
3. Dieses Buch ist interessanter ___ das andere.
4. Ich habe so viele Freunde ___ du.
5. Er läuft schneller ___ sein Bruder.
### Answers:
1. als
2. wie
3. als
4. wie
5. als
### Exercise 2: Translate the Sentences
Translate the following sentences into German, making sure to use “als” or “wie” correctly.
1. She is taller than I am.
2. He is as smart as his brother.
3. This car is faster than that one.
4. I have as many books as you.
5. She runs faster than I do.
### Answers:
1. Sie ist größer als ich.
2. Er ist so schlau wie sein Bruder.
3. Dieses Auto ist schneller als das.
4. Ich habe so viele Bücher wie du.
5. Sie läuft schneller als ich.
### Exercise 3: Create Your Own Sentences
Create five sentences in German using “als” and five sentences using “wie” to compare different things. Share them with a study partner or a tutor to get feedback.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Even with a solid understanding of when to use “als” and “wie,” there are common pitfalls that learners often encounter. Here are a few to watch out for:
### Mixing Up “als” and “wie”
One of the most common mistakes is using “als” when “wie” should be used, and vice versa. Always remember:
– Use “als” for comparisons of inequality (more than, less than).
– Use “wie” for comparisons of equality (as… as).
### Incorrect Adjective Forms
Ensure that you are using the correct form of the adjective or adverb in your comparisons. For example, the comparative form of “gut” (good) is “besser” (better), and the superlative form is “am besten” (best).
### Overlooking Context
Context can change the meaning of a sentence, so always consider the context in which you are making the comparison. For instance, “Er ist besser als ich” (He is better than I am) versus “Er ist so gut wie ich” (He is as good as I am) convey different meanings.
Conclusion
Mastering the use of “als” and “wie” in comparatives is a crucial step in becoming proficient in German. By understanding the rules and practicing regularly, you can avoid common mistakes and communicate more effectively. Remember, “als” is used for comparisons of inequality, while “wie” is used for comparisons of equality. With this knowledge and plenty of practice, you’ll be well on your way to mastering German comparatives. Happy learning!
