I'm totally confused

Question

In this sentence:The heavier a plane is, the more energy it needs to take off.Why we put " the " before the comparison  "the heavier a plane" doesn't make any senseWho can explain.

Mister Micawber · Accepted Answer

AnonymousIn this sentence:The heavier a plane is, the more energy it needs to take off.Why we put " the " before the comparison "the heavier a plane" doesn't make any senseWho can explain.

It is the double comparison format, that is all; reading it in segments is the wrong way to approach a fixed expression:

the more the merrier
the sooner the better

CalifJim · Answer

AnonymousThe heavier a plane is, the more energy it needs to take off.

These the ..., the ... sentences are disguised if-statements with an implication of proportionality.

If a plane is heavier, it needs more energy to take off (proportionately).

Or,
As you increase the weight of the plane, you have to increase (in proportion to the increase in weight) the energy that it needs to take off.

Consider putting 'that' in the sentence (twice). It may help you see the structure better, though we don't say it or write it that way.

The heavier that a plane is, the more energy that it needs to take off.

______________________

Similarly,

The longer you work, the more tired you get ~ If you work longer, you get more tired (proportionately).
The more he eats, the less hungry he is. ~ If he eats more, he is less hungry (proportionately).

CJ

I'm totally confused

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