【问】 我在A Course in Basic Scientific English中遇到这样一个句子：

...a problem is recognized，and as much information as appears to be relevant is collected.

请分析as much...as。

【答】 as much (many)是表数量的词。在上面的句子里as much用作定语，后一个与之相关联的as是关系代词，在从句中充当主语。有时候也可以充当其他成分。类例：

1. Isabella has as many books as her brother(has). (CGEL)

伊莎贝拉拥有的书像她哥哥那么多。

2. They used as many tools as they found within their reach.

凡能找到的工具，他们全都用上了。

3. I haven't got as much money as I thought.

我手头的钱并不像我原来想像的那么多。

(参见as much as²)