N5 · Structured courses

Comparison: Yori (More Than)

Learn the basic comparison pattern "A is more ... than B" using より. This lesson combines form, context, examples, common mistakes, and practice so you can use the pattern in real communication.

12 minNihongo Hub Editorial TeamPublished 2026-06-06Updated 2026-06-06

Learning objectives

  • Lesson goals: Learn the basic comparison pattern "A is more ... than B" using より.
  • Form and connection: [A] は [B] より [Adjective] です
  • Nuance in real use: より expresses comparison without absolute judgment — saying "A is more than B" rather than "A is best" reflects Japanese preference for relative statements.

Form and connection

[A] は [B] より [Adjective] です

Core Explanation

Learn the basic comparison pattern "A is more ... than B" using より.

Cultural Note

より expresses comparison without absolute judgment — saying "A is more than B" rather than "A is best" reflects Japanese preference for relative statements.

Practical examples

Tokyo has more people than Osaka.
This book is more interesting than that one.
Japan is smaller than China.

Common pitfalls

Build the base form before adding the pattern

Complete the required conjugation first. Do not keep polite and plain endings at the same time.

Match politeness to the situation

The examples are reliable starting points; relationships and context can still change the most natural wording.

Practice and answers

1. Write the connection formula for this lesson.
Show answer[A] は [B] より [Adjective] です
2. Explain the meaning of the first example.
Show answerTokyo has more people than Osaka.
3. Rewrite the final example using this lesson pattern.
Show answer中国ちゅうごくより日本にほんのほうが小ちいさいです。 ([A] は [B] より [Adjective] です)

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