Comparatives & Superlatives

Comparatives are adjectives used to compare one object to another object. Superlative also compares the object with another object or a group of objects, but shows the highest or the greatest form of adjective compared to the others. People tend to know what it is; the adding of -er or more to the form of adjective for comparative, and the adding of -est or most to the form of adjective for superlative. However, it is often difficult when to use the -er/-est at the ending or use more/most + adjective.

Here is the trick:

1. For 1 syllable use the -er (or just -r or the last consonant + -er). However, pay atttention to the irregulars.

Examples:

- bigger
- good --> better (irregular)
- larger
- hotter
- colder
- warmer

2. For 3 syllable words use more + initial adjective

- reasonable --> more reasonable
- expensive --> more expensive

3. 2 syllable words must be paid attention to: Generally we use more + adjective, except adjectives ending with -er, -y, -ow we must use the -er form.

Example:

shallow --> shallower
lively --> livelier
clever --> cleverer
handsome --> more handsome