Navigating the nuances of English grammar is crucial, especially when tackling the GMAT sentence correction section. Subtle differences in word choices can drastically alter meaning and correctness. Among the common points of confusion are the phrases “Compared With” and “compared to.” While both serve to draw comparisons, their appropriate usage hinges on the context – a distinction vital for GMAT success. This article clarifies the difference between “compared with” and “compared to,” equipping you to confidently tackle these questions on the GMAT.
Dissecting “Compared With”: For Similar Comparisons
The phrase “compared with” is employed when you are drawing a comparison between items of a similar nature. It highlights similarities and differences between comparable entities. Think of it as placing like items side-by-side to analyze their attributes.
For instance:
Example 1: Compared with other students in his class, John’s scores were exceptionally high.
Here, the comparison is made within the same group – students in a class. We are comparing John to his peers, all of whom are students. “Compared with” correctly signals this comparison between similar entities.
Dissecting “Compared To”: For Dissimilar Comparisons
Conversely, “compared to” is used when establishing a comparison between fundamentally different things. This phrase is used to illustrate a point by drawing parallels or analogies between disparate entities, often to emphasize a particular quality or characteristic.
Consider this example:
Example 2: Her resilience, compared to a sturdy oak tree weathering a storm, was truly inspiring.
In this case, we are comparing a human quality (resilience) to an inanimate object (an oak tree). These are not inherently similar categories. “Compared to” effectively bridges this gap, creating an illustrative comparison to emphasize the strength and steadfastness of her resilience.
Key Takeaway for GMAT Sentence Correction
Remember this simple guideline for the GMAT:
- Compared with: Use when comparing similar items or categories.
- Compared to: Use when drawing comparisons between dissimilar items or categories, often for metaphorical or illustrative purposes.
Mastering this distinction will significantly enhance your ability to identify correct and incorrect sentence constructions on the GMAT. Pay close attention to the context of the comparison presented in each sentence correction question, and you’ll be well-equipped to choose between “compared with” and “compared to” accurately.
