Adjectives
Adjectives of one syllable add -er and -est to their comparative and superlative forms. Adjectives ending with e just add -r and -st. Some adjectives double the final consonant.
| Positive | Comparative | Superlative |
|---|---|---|
| old | older/elder | oldest/eldest |
| nice | nicer | nicest |
| big | bigger | biggest |
| late | later | latest/last |
Some adjectives of two syllables add -er and -est to their comparative and superlative forms, respectively. Some other adjectives of two syllables use more or less in forming the comparative degree and most or least in forming the superlative degree.
| Positive | Comparative | Superlative |
|---|---|---|
| narrow | narrower | narrowest |
| happy | happier | happiest |
| useful | more useful | most useful |
| boring | more boring | most boring |
Adjectives of three or more syllables always add more or less and most or least before them to form comparative and superlative degrees.
| Positive | Comparative | Superlative |
|---|---|---|
| beautiful | more beautiful | most beautiful |
| dangerous | more dangerous | most dangerous |
| exciting | more exciting | most exciting |
There are a few adjectives which have irregular forms of comparative and superlative degrees. These you will have to learn by heart.
| Positive | Comparative | Superlative |
|---|---|---|
| good/well | better | best |
| bad | worse | worst |
| little | less | least |
| far | farther/further | farthest/furthest |
By their nature, some adjectives cannot be compared because they are already at their highest extent or degree. These adjectives are perfect, unique, excellent, outstanding, etc.