When learning or improving your Portuguese skills, one of the most common expressions you will come across is “em comparação a”. This phrase is widely used in both formal and informal contexts, especially in writing, academic work, and business discussions. But what does it really mean, and how can you use it naturally in conversation or text? Let’s dive in.
What Does “Em Comparação a” Mean?
The expression “em comparação a” literally translates to “in comparison to” in English. It is used to compare one subject, object, or idea with another. Whether you are talking about prices, performances, opinions, or lifestyles, this phrase helps highlight similarities or differences in a clear and structured way.
For example:
- O preço deste carro é alto em comparação a outros modelos.
(The price of this car is high in comparison to other models.) - A qualidade deste produto é melhor em comparação a concorrentes.
(The quality of this product is better in comparison to competitors.)
Importance of “Em Comparação a” in Communication
In both spoken and written Portuguese, comparisons are essential for effective communication. Using “em comparação a” gives your argument credibility and clarity. It is especially useful in:
- Business reports: comparing sales, strategies, or markets.
- Academic writing: comparing theories, data, or case studies.
- Everyday conversation: comparing products, places, or experiences.
This makes the phrase not just grammatical, but also practical and functional.
Examples in Real-Life Situations
- Travel & Lifestyle
- Lisboa é cara em comparação a outras cidades portuguesas.
(Lisbon is expensive in comparison to other Portuguese cities.)
- Economics
- O euro está forte em comparação ao dólar.
(The euro is strong in comparison to the dollar.)
- Education
- O novo método de ensino é mais eficaz em comparação a técnicas antigas.
(The new teaching method is more effective in comparison to old techniques.)
Common Mistakes Learners Make
Many learners confuse “em comparação a” with “em comparação com”. While both are used, “em comparação a” is more common in modern Portuguese writing. The difference is subtle, but “a” is often preferred when introducing the object of comparison.
Another mistake is word order. Remember that “em comparação a” usually follows the item being described, not the one it is compared against.
Why This Phrase Matters for Learners
For Portuguese learners, mastering connectors like “em comparação a” makes your speech more advanced and natural. Instead of basic phrases like “mais que” (more than) or “menos que” (less than), you’ll sound fluent and academic when using this structure.
It’s also a phrase that appears in newspapers, government reports, and research studies—so understanding it helps with comprehension too.
Practical Tips to Use It Naturally
- Practice writing short sentences comparing things in your daily life.
- Listen to podcasts or watch Portuguese news to hear how experts use it.
- Try replacing “mais que” or “menos que” with “em comparação a” for variety.
By practicing regularly, the phrase will soon feel automatic in both speaking and writing.
FAQs about “Em Comparação a”
Q1: Is “em comparação a” the same as “em comparação com”?
Yes, both are grammatically correct. However, “em comparação a” is slightly more formal and preferred in academic or business contexts.
Q2: Can I use it in casual conversation?
Absolutely. Native speakers use it casually when comparing prices, food, or travel experiences.
Q3: Does the preposition “a” change with gender or number?
Yes. Depending on the noun that follows, it may appear as ao (masculine singular), à (feminine singular), or aos/às (plural). Example: em comparação ao passado.
Q4: What’s a simple synonym?
You can use “em relação a” (in relation to) or just “comparado a” (compared to) as synonyms.
Q5: How can I practice this phrase effectively?
Start by writing 5–10 daily sentences comparing objects, situations, or opinions. Over time, it will naturally become part of your vocabulary.
Conclusion
The phrase “em comparação a” is a powerful tool in Portuguese that makes your communication clearer and more professional. Whether you are a student, a professional, or just someone learning the language for fun, using it correctly can take your fluency to the next level.
By understanding its meaning, practicing real-life examples, and avoiding common mistakes, you’ll be ready to use “em comparação a” with confidence—both in writing and in everyday conversation.