Comparatives & Superlatives
Compare two things (bigger, more expensive) or pick the top one (the biggest, the most expensive).
What is it?
Comparatives compare two things: Joe is taller than Monica. Superlatives compare one thing with a whole group: Joe is the tallest in the class.
When to use it
- Comparative + than: This bag is cheaper than that one.
- The + superlative: It’s the best restaurant in town.
- As … as for equal things: She’s as clever as her brother.
When not to use it
Never use more and -er together: more bigger is wrong. Choose one, depending on the length of the adjective.
How to build it
| Adjective | Comparative | Superlative |
|---|---|---|
| Short (1 syllable): small | smaller | the smallest |
| Ends in -y: busy | busier | the busiest |
| Long (2+ syllables): expensive | more expensive | the most expensive |
| Irregular: good / bad / far | better / worse / further | the best / the worst / the furthest |
Examples
- The train is faster than the bus.
- Today is the hottest day of the year.
- Monica’s English is better than last year.
- This phone isn’t as expensive as I thought.
Common mistakes
- She is more taller than me.She is taller than me.
- It’s the most cheap option.It’s the cheapest option.
- My score was more good this time.My score was better this time.
Memory tip
Short word, short ending; long word, long phrase. One syllable → -er/-est. Long adjective → more/most.
Joe & Monica
Monica: Which phone should I buy?
Joe: This one is cheaper, but that one has a better camera.
Monica: I want the best camera. I take a lot of photos!
Interactive Practice
Pick an answer to check your understanding.
Question 1 of 5
Dhaka is ___ than Sylhet.
Question 2 of 5
This is the ___ exam I’ve ever taken.
Question 3 of 5
My English is getting ___ every day.
Question 4 of 5
This phone isn’t as expensive ___ that one.
Question 5 of 5
Today is ___ than yesterday.
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