Parallel comparisons (autant... autant...)

To draw a strong, balanced contrast between two facts, use the parallel structure autant... autant.... It translates to "As much as... so much..." and is used where English speakers might say "While [this is true], [that is equally true]."

Because this structure presents two facts, both clauses use the standard indicative mood.

As much as sailing fascinates me, so much does scuba diving scare me.
Autant la voile me passionne, autant la plongée m'effraie.
As much as he prefers climbing in summer, so much does he love snowboarding in winter.
Autant il préfère l'escalade en été, autant il adore le snowboard en hiver.

Balancing Opposites

Use this structure to compare distinct preferences, seasons, or characteristics.

As much as cycling is tiring, so much is golf relaxing.
Autant le cyclisme est fatigant, autant le golf est relaxant.
As much as cycling demands endurance, so much does scuba diving require agility.
Autant le cyclisme demande de l'endurance, autant la plongée exige de l'agilité.