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Comparisons with 于 and 过
The pattern A + adjective + 于/过 + B compares A and B by a quality, amount, or result. Learn how 于 and 过 work in this construction, when the pattern suits formal writing or everyday speech, and how to form a direct question.
这项研究的实际成本高于此前的估计。
高于 is an established comparison phrase. The actual cost is compared with its estimated amount.
Read the full explanation and examples
Meaning and basic form
This point covers a compact comparison of A and B on a stated dimension. Learn established phrases such as 高于, 低于, 多于, 优于 and 强过; the formula does not mean that any adjective can freely take 于 or 过. People, objects, results and quantities can be compared when the intended dimension and comparison are clear.
Put the subject being described first, then the adjective, then 于 or 过, and finally the comparison target. The target may be a noun phrase, a person, a time period, or a previously mentioned option. If the comparison applies only to one dimension, name it with a phrase such as “in long-term maintenance” before the subject or as part of the subject’s context. This keeps the claim precise.
Using 于 in comparisons
于 commonly occurs in concise written comparisons such as 高于 (higher than), 低于 (lower than), 多于 (greater in amount than), and 优于 (superior to). These are established combinations, not a license to attach 于 to any adjective: use 比……可靠 for “more reliable than,” rather than inventing 可靠于. Translate the comparison naturally; 于 here does not mean “at.”
这项研究的实际成本高于此前的估计。
高于 is an established comparison phrase. The actual cost is compared with its estimated amount.
新方案在长期维护方面优于旧方案。
Correct. The introductory dimension narrows the comparison to maintenance over the long term.
今年的申请人数多于去年同期。
Correct. 多于 compares quantities, and the time phrase makes the periods comparable.
Using 过 and choosing between the two
In this comparison pattern, 过 marks the point of comparison and often gives the statement a more conversational or vivid feel. It is natural with evaluative adjectives such as 强, as in the example about judgment under pressure. This 过 is part of a comparison construction; it is not the experiential marker meaning “have done before.” The surrounding adjective and the following comparison target make the intended use clear.
她的临场判断力强过不少有经验的选手。
Correct. 强过 gives this evaluation a relatively direct, conversational tone.
Both forms compare A with B, but they are not freely interchangeable in every expression. 于 is often a good fit for concise written assessments, while 过 often suits a more conversational evaluation. These are useful tendencies rather than absolute rules. When deciding, consider the adjective’s usual pairing, the tone of the surrounding text, and whether you want a measured report or a more immediate judgment.
Questions and a practical check
The pattern can appear in a question when the speaker asks whether A exceeds B on a stated dimension. A yes-or-no question can use 是否 before the adjective phrase. The question mark and the surrounding context make it a genuine inquiry; the comparative structure itself remains unchanged.
在稳定性上，这个版本是否优于上一版？
Correct. 是否 forms a direct yes-or-no question while the comparison remains 优于.
- Identify A, the thing being evaluated, and B, its comparison target.
- Ask what quality or amount the adjective compares; add a dimension such as stability or maintenance if needed.
- Choose 于 or 过 in a phrase that fits the adjective and the tone of the passage.
- Translate the comparison naturally, then check that the sentence does not claim more than the context supports.
Frequently asked questions
Can 于 and 过 always replace each other?
No. Both can mark comparison in this pattern, but their usual adjective pairings and tone differ. 于 often suits concise written assessments, while 过 often sounds more conversational or vivid. Check the expression and context.
Does 过 here mean that an action happened before?
No. In this pattern it marks the comparison target after an adjective. The adjective and following phrase distinguish this use from the experiential marker.
Should I always name the dimension being compared?
No. Context can make it clear, but an explicit dimension such as stability or maintenance helps when a statement could otherwise be too broad.
