Degrees of comparison

• Engels
• Middelbare school
• vwo
• Leerjaar 1

Learning objective

I can use comparatives and superlatives in a sentence.

Degrees of comparison

Comparative = vergrotende trap.

Superlative = overtreffende trap.

more intelligent

least

happier

safest

smaller

Vergrotende trap

Overtreffende trap

Comparatives and Superlatives

To describe things or people, you use adjectives such as small, old, strong, cold and fast.

To compare two things or people, you add -er (comparative) or 

-est (superlative) to the adjective.

The baseball is small

The tennis ball is smaller.

The golf ball is smallest of them all.

Comparatives and Superlatives

If the adjective end in -e, you only add -r or -st.

safe - safer - safest

If the adjective ends in a short vowel (a, e, i, o, u) + one consonant, you also double the consonant.

fit - fitter - fittest.

Comparatives and Superlatives

If the adjective ends in a consonant +y, you replace the last letter with -ier and -iest.

happy - happier - happiest

Comparatives and Superlatives

For adjectives with three syllables (lettergrepen) or more, you use more in the comparative and most in the superlative. Note: This is also the case for some two-syllable adjectives (such as awful, famous and boring).

practical - more practical - most practical

awful - more awful - most awful

Comparatives and Superlatives

Some adjectives have their own irregular form.

good/well - better - best

bad/ill - worse - worst

little - less - least

many/much - more - most

What is the comparative of "lively"?

What is the comparative of "sad"?

What is the superlative of "hot"?

What is the superlative of "unpleasant"?

What is the superlative of "good"

What is the superlative of "heat"?

What now?

Instruction (40 min)

- Grammar instruction: Degrees of comparison.

- Chapter 6: Ex. 28, 29 and 30 (p. 122-124).