Word order of predicative comparative constructions

The word order of the adjective (Adj), comparative marker (M), and the standard of comparison (St)[1] in comparative constructions with a predicative function varies across the world’s languages. Within a given language, the word order in predicative function can also differ from that in attributive function.[2] If a language uses multiple strategies to mark the standard, the variant considered is the most synthetic of the existing strategies.[3] Some languages have no morphological marker for the comparative.

Types:

StAdj: The standard is followed by the adjective; the language does not have a separate marker for the comparative.

AdjSt: The adjective is followed by the standard; the language does not have a separate marker for the comparative.

StMAdj: The standard is followed by the marker, then the adjective.

AdjMSt: The adjective is followed by the marker, then the standard.

MStAdj: The marker is followed by the standard, then the adjective.

AdjStM: The adjective is followed by the standard, then the marker.

 

[1] For more information on these categories, see the parameter Predicative comparative constructions.

[2] The comparative structure functions as a predicate if the adjective – with or without a copula – is the predicate of a nominal subject (a comparee), as in (the tree) is taller than the house. It functions as an attributive if the adjective is the attribute of the noun, as in Hungarian a háznál magasabb fa (lit. “the than-the house taller tree”) ‘the tree that is taller than the house’.

[3] The preferred order of marking strategies is, therefore, the following: affixation > adposition > conjunction. If multiple strategies are used in a language, the first existing strategy to appear in the list is considered. If there is a conflict between the formal preference and the structure shown to be dominant in actual usage, the formal preference should be chosen; the dominant structure in actual usage should be noted in the commentary.