What are sentences like "the longer X, the more Y" called and can they be used in formal written English?

Question

What is the type of sentence exemplified below called? Is it appropriate to use it in a scientific paper and formal written English in general? >**1.** The more pronounced the variation, the > more the waste. >**2.** The more you give, the more you get. >**3.** The longer I live, the more I realize the impact of attitude on life.

Answer 1

There is no name in particular for the sentence form you mention. It is, of course,

perfectly acceptable to use in writing formal English or scientific papers. As always,

good writing is clear and concise. It must make sense to the reader or the writing is

confused.