Superlatives in English

This page covers the formation of superlative structures in English, which are used to express the highest degree of a quality.

Formation of Superlatives

The structure for superlatives depends on the adjective's length:

Short Adjectives

Use "the + adjective + -est"

Example: the smallest

Special cases:

• For adjectives ending in a consonant preceded by a short vowel, double the final consonant:

  Example: big → the biggest, fat → the fattest

• For adjectives ending in "e", just add "st":

  Example: nice → the nicest

Two-syllable Adjectives

• Adjectives ending in "-ow": add "-est"

  Example: narrow → the narrowest

• Adjectives ending in "-y": change "y" to "i" and add "-est"

  Example: happy → the happiest

• Adjectives ending in "-er": add "-est"

  Example: clever → the cleverest

Long Adjectives (2 syllables or more)

Use "the most + adjective"

Example: the most expensive

Irregular Superlatives

Some adjectives have irregular superlative forms:

Vocabulary:

• good → the best
• bad → the worst
• far → the furthest

Comparative of Inferiority

To express inferiority, use "less + adjective + than"

Example: John is less tall than Peter.

Highlight: Understanding these rules for comparatif en anglais exemple and superlatif en anglais exemple is crucial for mastering English comparisons. Practice with exercices comparatif anglais PDF to reinforce your learning.