Grammar Guide: Superlatives

Ice skating usually makes people think of cold, winter outings. However, we at Nomen Global think ice skating is the perfect way to escape the summer heat! This summer has reached record-high temperatures all across the United States. While some of our students are used to hot weather, many of our students from around the world are looking for ways to cool down. Today, we will visit the Olympic 2002 site, Seven Peaks Arena, for a fun afternoon ice skating!

Superlatives
Unlike comparatives, we use superlatives to describe a relationship among three or more things. Comparatives describe that relationship between only two things. To form the superlative, you can either add -est or most. The rules for superlative are similar to the rules for comparative to decide which form to use.

In addition to adding -est or most, the superlative also usually has the word the in front of it to show that it is definite.

One-syllable adjectives
When an adjective has only one syllable, the adjective generally takes the -est form to compare three or more things. If the word ends in one vowel and one consonant, double the consonant before adding -est.

• Ice skating is the coolest way to get out of the summer heat.
• July in Provo is the hottest month of the year.

Two-syllable adjectives ending in -y When an adjective has two syllables and ends with -y, we generally drop the -y and add -est.

• Ice skating is not the easiest sport, but it is fun!
• The students at Nomen Global are the friendliest students in the United States!

Three- or more syllable adjectives When an adjective has three or more syllables, the adjective uses more to form the comparative.

• Seven Peaks is the most popular place to go in the summer months.
• Staying near ice is one of the most effective ways to stay cool in the summer.

Learn more about superlative adjectives and other grammar points at Nomen Global! Visit our Facebook page to see more from our activities.