1.
degree, extent
Indicates the degree or extent of something, often used in comparisons.
彼ほど上手な人はいない。
There's no one as skilled as him.
Comparison pattern
泣きたいほど嬉しい。
I'm so happy I could cry.
Extent pattern
練習すればするほど上手になる。
The more you practice, the better you get.
〜ば〜ほど pattern
2.
about, approximately
Indicates an approximate quantity or amount.
1時間ほど待ちました。
I waited about one hour.
Approximate quantity
3日ほどかかります。
It takes about three days.
100人ほど集まった。
About 100 people gathered.
程 is a versatile word used for degree and approximation.
KEY PATTERNS:
1. Comparison (〜ほど〜ない):
- 彼ほど速くない: not as fast as him
2. Proportional (〜ば〜ほど):
- 練習すればするほど: the more you practice
3. Approximate amount:
- 3日ほど: about 3 days
4. To the extent (〜ほど):
- 泣きたいほど嬉しい: so happy I could cry
Note: ほど often softens statements compared to より.