〜に比べて

Sets up a baseline for comparison; the main clause states how the other thing differs, often with 〜ほうが or a degree word like ずっと. に比べ is the clipped written form used in reports and news. To compare clauses, nominalize first: 〜のに比べて.

• 去年に比べて、今年は雨が多い。

  きょねんにくらべて、ことしはあめがおおい。

  Compared with last year, there is a lot of rain this year.

• 兄に比べて、弟のほうがよく食べる。

  あににくらべて、おとうとのほうがよくたべる。

  Compared with the older brother, the younger one eats more.

• 都会に比べ、田舎は物価が安い。

  とかいにくらべ、いなかはぶっかがやすい。

  Compared with cities, prices in the countryside are low.