Comparisons with than or as

Sentence parts, usually verbs, are often omitted in comparisons beginning with than or as. To test for the correct pronoun, mentally complete the sentence.

Example sentence with editing. Original sentence: Even though he is sometimes ridiculed by the other boys, Norman is much better off than them. Revised sentence: Even though he is sometimes ridiculed by the other boys, Norman is much better off than they.

They is the subject of the verb are, which is understood: Norman is much better off than they [are]. If the correct English seems too formal, you can add the verb.

Example sentence with editing. Original sentence: We respected no other candidate for the city council as much as she. Revised sentence: We respected no other candidate for the city council as much as her.

This sentence means that we respected no other candidate as much as we respected her. Her is the direct object of the understood verb respected.

Exercises:

Pronoun case (such as I vs. me) 1

Pronoun case (such as I vs. me) 2

Pronoun case (such as I vs. me) 3

Pronoun case: review 1

Pronoun case: review 2