are more than

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are more than" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to compare quantities, qualities, or characteristics, indicating that one is greater than the other. Example: "The results of the experiment show that the benefits of the new treatment are more than just temporary relief."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"We are more than disappointed.

The New York Times

Some are more than orphans.

Independent

Names are more than symbols.

The New York Times

You are more than extremists.

Independent

Labels are more than descriptors.

The New York Times

All are more than justified.

Independent

But the Badgers are more than that.

The New York Times

There are more than 100 judicial vacancies.

The Economist

There are more than 300 breeds worldwide.

Encyclopedia Britannica

There are more than 700 members.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"Those stations are more than information sources.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "are more than", ensure you are comparing like terms to maintain clarity and logical consistency. For instance, compare qualities to qualities, quantities to quantities.

Common error

Avoid using "are more than" without specifying what is being compared to what. An incomplete comparison can lead to ambiguity and confusion for the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are more than" functions as a comparative expression, indicating that one thing surpasses another in quantity, quality, or degree. Ludwig provides numerous examples showing its use in various contexts to express superiority or excess.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Encyclopedias

12%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are more than" is a versatile comparative expression used to indicate that something surpasses another in quantity, quality, or degree. According to Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used in various contexts, particularly in news and media, encyclopedias, and scientific writing. While alternatives like "exceed", "surpass", and "outweigh" exist, "are more than" offers a direct and clear way to establish a comparison. It's essential to ensure that comparisons are complete and logical to avoid ambiguity. By following best practices and avoiding common errors, writers can effectively use "are more than" to enhance clarity and impact in their writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are greater than

Directly states a quantitative or qualitative difference, highlighting size or degree.

exceed

Implies surpassing a specific limit or degree, focusing on the act of going beyond.

are superior to

Indicates a higher quality or rank, emphasizing excellence or dominance.

surpass

Indicates outperforming or exceeding expectations, emphasizing achievement.

are larger than

States that something has more magnitude that the alternative option.

outweigh

Suggests having greater importance or influence, focusing on relative value or impact.

go beyond

Implies exceeding a defined boundary or scope, emphasizing expansion or transcendence.

are in excess of

Focuses on exceeding a numerical quantity, emphasizing surplus or abundance.

are above and beyond

Implies exceeding normal expectations or requirements, emphasizing exceptional effort or quality.

transcend

Suggests rising above or going beyond limitations, emphasizing spiritual or abstract elevation.

FAQs

How can I use "are more than" in a sentence?

The phrase "are more than" is used to indicate that something exceeds a certain quantity, quality, or expectation. For example: "The benefits "are more than" the risks."

What's the difference between "are more than" and "exceed"?

"Are more than" is a comparative phrase used to indicate that something surpasses a certain limit, while "exceed" /s/go+beyond is a verb that means to go beyond the limit or expectations. "The costs "are more than" we anticipated" is equivalent to "The costs exceeded our anticipations".

What can I say instead of "are more than"?

You can use alternatives like "exceed", "surpass", or "outweigh" depending on the specific context. Each carries a slightly different nuance but conveys a similar meaning of surpassing or being greater.

Is it grammatically correct to say "are more then" instead of "are more than"?

No, "are more then" is grammatically incorrect. The correct phrase is ""are more than"", using "than" to indicate a comparison.