more than

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "more than" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate a greater quantity, degree, or extent of something compared to another. Example: "She has more than enough experience for the job."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Well, more than urged.

The New York Times - Sports

"He's more than capable.

Independent

Or more than one.

The New York Times

"He more than anybody".

The New Yorker

More than I did.

The New York Times

It's more than winning.

The New York Times - Sports

Much more than once.

The New Yorker

More than that.

The New York Times

More than interesting.

The New Yorker

"He's more than decent.

The New York Times - Magazine

It's more than music.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "more than" in comparisons, ensure the items being compared are clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "He has more than enough", specify "He has more than enough experience".

Common error

Avoid using "more than" when comparing two adjectives modifying the same noun if a comparative adjective suffix (-er) can be used. Instead of saying "This car is more fast than safe", it is better to say "This car is faster than it is safe".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "more than" functions primarily as a comparative quantifier, indicating a degree or amount exceeding a specified limit. Ludwig examples show it quantifying both tangible items ("more than 70 correct") and abstract concepts ("more than frustration"). Ludwig AI confirms this is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Wiki

12%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academic

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "more than" is a versatile phrase used to indicate that something exceeds a certain limit or degree. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and frequently used across various contexts. Ludwig examples showcase its use in diverse fields, including news, media, and science. While semantically similar phrases like "greater than" or "in excess of" exist, "more than" provides a balance of formality and accessibility, making it a valuable addition to any writer's toolkit. Remember to use it correctly in comparisons and avoid common mistakes to ensure clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

greater than

This phrase is a direct synonym, suitable for numerical or quantifiable comparisons. It is more formal.

over

A concise alternative, primarily used with numbers or quantities to indicate exceeding a certain amount. It is more casual.

exceeding

Implies surpassing a specific limit or expectation, often used in formal contexts or technical descriptions.

in excess of

A formal and emphatic way of saying "more than", often used in legal or financial contexts to denote surpassing a specified amount.

beyond

Suggests something is not only greater, but also outside the limits of something else. Conveys a sense of going past the norm.

above

Indicates a position or level higher than something else, also usable when talking about numerical values.

surpassing

Emphasizes the act of exceeding or outdoing something else. More dynamic and action-oriented than "more than".

rather than

Indicates a preference for one option over another, in the sense of "more of X than Y".

to a greater extent than

A more verbose and formal way of expressing "more than", often used for emphasis or precision.

on top of

This phrase can be used as a synonym in some cases to express one thing accumulating "on top" of another.

FAQs

How to use "more than" to show I have a preference?

You can show a preference using "more than" like in these examples: "I enjoy reading "more than" watching television", or "I value honesty "more than" flattery".

What are some alternatives to "more than" when comparing numbers?

When comparing numbers, consider using alternatives such as "greater than", "over", or "exceeding". For example, "The cost was "greater than" expected".

Can "more than" be used to express disbelief or surprise?

Yes, "more than" can be used to express surprise or disbelief, often in rhetorical questions or exclamations. For example, "Did she really eat "more than" five slices of pizza?"

Is it correct to use "more than" with uncountable nouns?

Yes, it is correct to use "more than" with uncountable nouns. For example, "We need "more than" just hope; we need action".