Comparative and Superlatives

Comparative and Superlatives

1. Adjectives with two syllables can form the comparative either by adding -er or by preceding the adjective with more. These adjectives form the superlative either by adding -est or by preceding the adjective with most. In many cases, both forms are used.

   • COMPARATIVES
     • When comparing more than two things, you’ll likely use words and phrases like smallest, biggest, tallest, most interesting, and least interesting
       • STRUCTURE
         • For two-syllable adjectives ending in -y, change the -y to -I and add -er. example: pretty-prettier
         • For adjectives that are just one syllable, add -er to the end example: tall-taller
         • For two-syllable adjectives not ending in -y and for all three-or-more-syllable adjectives, use the form “more + adjective.” example: intelligent-more intelligent
   • SUPERLATIVES
     • When comparing more than two things, you’ll likely use words and phrases like smallest, biggest, tallest, most inte resting, and least interesting
       • STRUCTURE
         • For adjectives that are just one syllable, add -er to the end example: tall-taller
         • For the adjectives not ending in -y and for all three-or-more-syllable adjectives, use the form “the most + adjective.”: John is the most intelligent in his class
         • For adjectives that are just one syllable, add -est to the end example: tall-tallest