Add the plus -est to short adjectives, as in this is the tallest building in the city, and use the most plus long adjectives, as in this is the most interesting book I’ve read. Always use the before the superlative, and never combine -est with most in the same sentence.
Grammar Rule
Always use the before the superlative, and never combine -est with most.
Superlatives: Rules and Examples
| Adjective length | Rule | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Short | the + adjective + est | This is the tallest building in the city. This was the easiest test of the year. She is the youngest in her family. |
| Long | the most + adjective | This is the most interesting book I’ve read. |
Remember: always use the before the superlative, and never combine -est with most.
Practice Test
Instructions
Answer each question in the test below forming the correct superlative sentence. You will get a new random set of questions every time you retake the test, plus a downloadable results summary with your name and score at the end.
Superlatives – Short and Long Adjectives (Consolidation)
No necesitas registrarte para empezar. Al finalizar verás tu calificación de inmediato, y si quieres podrás agregar tu nombre para personalizar y descargar tu resultado.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you form the superlative of short adjectives?
Add the before the adjective and -est at the end, as in this is the tallest building in the city.
How do you form the superlative of long adjectives?
Use the most before the adjective, as in this is the most interesting book I’ve read.
Can you combine -est and most in the same superlative?
No, never combine both forms; use only the…-est for short adjectives or the most… for long adjectives, never both together.
Do superlatives always need the article the?
Yes, the always comes before a superlative adjective, as in she is the youngest in her family.