Adjectives in Comparison help you compare people, things, and ideas clearly. English uses special forms for more, less, and the most. In this lesson, you will learn how to compare without mixing the patterns, ensuring your sentences are grammatically correct and convey the intended meaning.
Examples
Example 1
IncorrectThis route is more cheap than the old one.
BetterThis route is cheaper than the old one.
"Cheaper" is the correct comparative form of "cheap."
Example 2
IncorrectIt is the most easiest option for students.
BetterIt is the easiest option for students.
"Easiest" is the correct superlative form without "most."
How It Works
Meaning
Adjectives in comparison are used to describe differences in the qualities or quantities of nouns. They help indicate whether one thing is superior, inferior, or equal to another.
Comparative adjectives are formed by adding -er to one-syllable adjectives or using more with longer adjectives. Superlatives are formed by adding -est or using most.
This skill is crucial at the B2 level for crafting precise and varied sentences in both spoken and written English.
Use it when
- Comparing two items: use comparatives like "cheaper" or "more expensive".
- Identifying the highest or lowest degree among three or more items: use superlatives like "cheapest" or "most expensive".
- Expressing equality between two items: use "as...as".
- Writing essays or reports where comparison is necessary.
- Engaging in discussions where you need to compare options or ideas.
See it
Quick rules
- Use -er for one-syllable adjectives and more for longer adjectives when comparing two items.
- Use -est for one-syllable adjectives and most for longer adjectives when identifying the highest degree.
- Do not mix -er with more or -est with most.
- Use "as...as" to show equality between two things.
- Always use "than" after comparatives and "in/of" after superlatives.
Common Mistakes
Common problem 1
Combining comparison forms incorrectly
WeakThis phone is more better than my old one.
StrongThis phone is better than my old one.
Fix: Use either "better" or "more" but not both.
Common problem 2
Using double comparatives
WeakThis route is more faster during rush hour.
StrongThis route is faster during rush hour.
Fix: Use one comparative marker only, such as "faster."
Common problem 3
Using "than" after a superlative
WeakIt is the cheapest than the old model.
StrongIt is cheaper than the old model.
Fix: Use "than" with comparatives and "in/of" with superlatives.
Practice Lab
Practice
First notice the right form. Then build it yourself. Then fix it in a full sentence.
Score: 0/3
Focus on choosing the correct comparative or superlative form to convey the intended meaning accurately.
1. Quick pick
Choose the correct comparative form.
2. Build it
Put this Adjectives in Comparison sentence in the correct order.
Tap a chunk to move it down. Tap it again to send it back.
3. Final sort
Mark each sentence as correct or needing a fix.
This book is the best in the series.
This book is the most best in the series.
Why It Matters
🎯 Why it matters: Mastering adjectives in comparison allows you to convey precise differences and similarities, making your communication clearer and more effective in both everyday and academic contexts.
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