The Comparative Degree

The comparative degree of a adjective is used when a comparison is made between two persons or things. The comparative degree shows that the quality (expressed by the adjective) exists to a greater or lessor degree in one of the two persons or things that are being compared.

The comparative degree of almost all adjectives of one syllable is formed by adding "er" to the positive degree, or to the simple from of the adjective; for example, colder, smoother, longer, greater, stronger, firmer, thicker, etc.

In the first example two persons are compared as to strength. Howard possesses this quality to a greater degree than Mike.

In the second example two things are compared as to size. One table has the quality of size to a greater degree than the other.

The superlative Degree

The superlative degree is used when more than two persons or things are compared. The superlative degree indicates that the quality (expressed by the adjective) is possessed to the greatest or to the least degree by one of the persons or things included in the comparison.

In the first example all houses on the block are compared as to size. Our house has the quality of size to a greatest degree than the others.

In the second example all boys in the class are compared as to height. John has the quality of height to a least degree and all others in the class. See the next page to express adjectives of superlative degree.