Superlatives

Superlatives are used to show the difference between more than two objects. Let’s say that I have three cars. I have a little Toyota, a medium size Jeep and a big Ford. A superlative is used to show the difference between in the group. The Ford is big so we can say “the Ford is the biggest”. Because the Toyota is small, we can say “The Toyota is the smallest”. To learn to use these we need to learn five basic rules.

1. If an adjective has 1 syllable we add the ending –est to the adjective.

i.e. small + est = the smallest

i.e. hard + est = the hardest

2. If a one syllable adjective ends with a consonant + a vowel + a consonant you must double the last consonant and ad –est.

i.e. big + est = the biggest

i.e. fat + est = the fattest

3. If an adjective ends with a “y”, remove the “y” and add –iest.

i.e. happy –y + iest = the happiest

i.e. funny –y + iest = the funniest

4. If an adjectives has two syllables or more without a “y” then add the word “more” before the word. If the adjective ends with a “y” you will only add the word “most” if it has two syllables or more.

i.e. beautiful + most = the most beautiful

i.e. expensive + most = the most expensive

i.e. satisfactory + most = the most satisfactory

5. There are a few exceptions.

good = the best

bad = the worst

far = the farthest

• Remember, when using a superlative you must always precede it with the word “the”.
• The Toyota is the smallest.
• The Ford is the biggest.
• Britney Spears is most beautiful.
• The airplane is most expensive.
• Jim Carrey is the funniest.