Adjectives are words that describe or modify nouns. When we want to compare two or more things using adjectives, we use comparative and superlative forms.
1. What Are Comparative Adjectives?
Comparative adjectives are used to compare two people, animals, things, or ideas. They show a difference in degree or amount.
For short adjectives (one syllable):
Add -er to the adjective.
Examples:
tall → taller
fast → faster
small → smaller
For adjectives ending in -y:
Change -y to -i and add -er.
Examples:
happy → happier
busy → busier
For long adjectives (two syllables or more):
Use more before the adjective.
Examples:
beautiful → more beautiful
expensive → more expensive
➤ Example Sentences:
My house is bigger than yours.
2. What Are Superlative Adjectives?
Superlative adjectives are used to compare three or more things or people, showing the highest or lowest degree.
For short adjectives:
Add -est.
Examples:
tall → tallest
fast → fastest
For adjectives ending in -y:
Change -y to -i and add -est.
Examples:
happy → happiest
busy → busiest
For long adjectives:
Use most before the adjective.
Examples:
beautiful → most beautiful
difficult → most difficult
➤ Example Sentences:
She is the tallest student in the class.
3. Irregular Adjectives
Some adjectives have irregular forms and don’t follow standard rules.
Adjective Comparative Superlative
good better best
bad worse worst
far farther/further farthest/furthest
➤ Examples:
This exam is better than the last one.
4. Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t use more or most with adjectives that already end in -er or -est.
❌ more faster → ✅ faster
❌ most smartest → ✅ smartest
Always use than when making a comparison with a comparative adjective.
✅ He is taller than me.
5. Tips for Learning
Read and listen to native English to hear how comparisons are naturally used.
Practice by comparing things around you (e.g., “My phone is faster than my old one”).
Make lists of irregular adjectives and memorize them.
Conclusion
Comparative and superlative adjectives are essential for making comparisons in English. By learning the rules and practicing regularly, you can improve your grammar and express yourself more clearly and accurately.
