English grammar has many interesting rules, and one of the most important topics is the degrees of comparison. These are used to compare people, places, or things based on their qualities. The three main degrees are Positive Comparative Superlative. Understanding these forms helps learners improve writing, speaking, and communication skills effectively.
What is the Positive Degree?
The Positive Degree simply describes a quality without making any comparison. It shows something in its basic or original form.
Examples:
- Ali is tall.
- This book is interesting.
- She is kind.
In all these examples, the adjectives “tall,” “interesting,” and “kind” only describe without comparing.
What is the Comparative Degree?
The Comparative Degree is used when we compare two people or things. Usually, the word “than” follows the comparative form. Most adjectives add “-er”, or use “more” before the word.
Examples:
- Ali is taller than Ahmed.
- This book is more interesting than the other.
- She is kinder than her sister.
The comparative degree highlights differences between two objects or individuals.
What is the Superlative Degree?
The Superlative Degree shows the highest quality among three or more people or things. It often uses “the” before the adjective. Most adjectives add “-est”, or use “most” before the word.
Examples:
- Ali is the tallest boy in the class.
- This is the most interesting book I have read.
- She is the kindest person in the group.
Rules for Forming Positive Comparative Superlative
- One-syllable adjectives:
- tall → taller → tallest
- fast → faster → fastest
- Two-syllable adjectives ending in -y:
- happy → happier → happiest
- easy → easier → easiest
- Adjectives with two or more syllables:
- beautiful → more beautiful → most beautiful
- important → more important → most important
- Irregular adjectives:
- good → better → best
- bad → worse → worst
- far → farther/further → farthest/furthest
Why Are Degrees of Comparison Important?
Using positive, comparative, and superlative degrees correctly makes communication clearer and more powerful. Whether writing an essay, speaking in daily life, or preparing for exams, these forms allow you to express qualities and comparisons accurately.
Positive Comparative Superlative Download in PDF
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