slug: comparatives-superlatives title: Comparatives & Superlatives group: structures order: 4 summary: Compare two things with a comparative form, or rank one among many with a superlative form. formula: S + V + adj-er / more + adj + than O · S + V + the adj-est / most + adj
When to use it
Use a comparative when you compare exactly two things or states. Use a superlative when you single out one item from a group of three or more as the highest or lowest on a scale.
This room is bigger than the other one. It is the biggest room in the building.
The choice between -er/-est and more/most depends on the length and syllable count of the adjective.
Form
| Adjective type | Comparative | Superlative | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| One syllable | + -er | + -est | tall → taller → tallest |
| One syllable ending in -e | + -r | + -st | nice → nicer → nicest |
| One syllable ending in CVC | double consonant + -er | double consonant + -est | big → bigger → biggest |
| Two syllables ending in -y | change y → i + -er | change y → i + -est | happy → happier → happiest |
| Two or more syllables | more + adjective | most + adjective | beautiful → more beautiful → most beautiful |
| Irregular | see below | see below | good → better → best; bad → worse → worst |
Always use than after a comparative when the second item is mentioned: "She is taller than me". Always use the before a superlative: "It is the most expensive option".
Examples
- My new apartment is smaller than my old one, but more convenient.
- That was the worst film I have ever seen.
- Of the three candidates, she is the most experienced.
Common mistakes
- Double-marking: "more taller" → taller; "most tallest" → tallest.
- Omitting
than: "This is better the previous one" → This is better than the previous one. - Forgetting
thebefore superlatives: "She is best student" → She is the best student.