Pronouns after ‘than’ and ‘as’

Key Notes:

  • Than and as are used to make comparisons between two or more things or people.
  • When using pronouns in these comparisons, it’s essential to choose the correct form to maintain grammatical accuracy.

  • Pronouns after ‘than’ should agree with the comparison being made.
  • The pronoun used must match the function it serves in the sentence, whether as a subject or an object.

Examples:

  • Subject Pronouns:
    When the pronoun acts as the subject in the second clause, use the subject pronoun.
  • Correct: She is taller than I (am tall).
  • Incorrect: She is taller than me (am tall).
  • Object Pronouns:
    When the pronoun serves as an object, use the object pronoun.
  • Correct: He is smarter than him (in math).
  • Incorrect: He is smarter than he (in math).

  • Pronouns after ‘as’ are often used in comparisons that describe equality or similarity.
  • The same rule applies; ensure that the pronoun used fits the grammatical role it plays.

Examples:

  • Subject Pronouns:
    When the pronoun acts as the subject, use the subject pronoun.
  • Correct: She sings as well as I (sing).
  • Incorrect: She sings as well as me (sing).
  • Object Pronouns:
    When the pronoun serves as an object, use the object pronoun.
  • Correct: He treats me as well as he (treats me).
  • Incorrect: He treats me as well as him (treats me).

  • Clarifying Context:
    Sometimes, the context of the sentence will dictate whether to use a subject or object pronoun.
  • Example:
    • Correct: “He plays the piano better than I (do).” (Subject pronoun)
    • Correct: “The teacher prefers her to be as involved as me (to be).” (Object pronoun)

  • Misuse of Pronouns:
    A frequent error is using the wrong pronoun after than and as.
  • Remember: To determine which pronoun to use, complete the sentence mentally or in writing to see if the sentence remains grammatically correct.

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