The English language is rich and complex, filled with nuances that make it both fascinating and challenging to master. One of the interesting aspects of English grammar that often confounds both native speakers and learners alike is the use of double superlatives. In this article, we will delve into what double superlatives are, why they occur, their historical context, and how to avoid them in both spoken and written English. By the end, you will have a clearer understanding of this common pitfall and be better equipped to use superlatives correctly.
Understanding Superlatives
Before diving into double superlatives, it’s essential to understand what superlatives are. In English, a superlative is a form of an adjective or adverb that expresses the highest degree of a quality among three or more entities. For example, in the sentence “She is the tallest girl in the class,” “tallest” is the superlative form of “tall.”
Superlatives are typically formed in one of two ways:
1. **Short adjectives and adverbs (usually one syllable)**: Add the suffix “-est” to the end of the word (e.g., “small” becomes “smallest”).
2. **Longer adjectives and adverbs (usually two syllables or more)**: Use “most” before the word (e.g., “beautiful” becomes “most beautiful”).
Common Examples of Superlatives
– Tall -> Tallest
– Fast -> Fastest
– Happy -> Happiest
– Interesting -> Most interesting
– Careful -> Most careful
What Are Double Superlatives?
Double superlatives occur when two superlative forms are used together, often redundantly. This redundancy can make the sentence sound awkward and is generally considered grammatically incorrect. An example of a double superlative would be “most tallest” or “most wisest.” Both of these phrases are incorrect because they combine the “-est” suffix with the word “most,” which is unnecessary and redundant.
Examples of Double Superlatives
– Incorrect: She is the most tallest girl in the class.
– Correct: She is the tallest girl in the class.
– Incorrect: This is the most best book I have ever read.
– Correct: This is the best book I have ever read.
– Incorrect: He is the most wisest man I know.
– Correct: He is the wisest man I know.
Why Do Double Superlatives Happen?
Double superlatives often occur due to a lack of understanding of how superlatives are formed. This can be especially common among non-native speakers or young children who are still learning the rules of English grammar. Sometimes, double superlatives can also occur in informal speech or writing when someone is trying to emphasize a point.
Historical Context
Interestingly, double superlatives were more common and somewhat acceptable in older forms of English. For example, in Middle English and even in some Early Modern English texts, double superlatives can be found. Shakespeare, for instance, used double superlatives in his works, such as “the most unkindest cut of all” from “Julius Caesar.” However, modern English has largely moved away from this practice, and double superlatives are now considered incorrect.
Avoiding Double Superlatives
Avoiding double superlatives is relatively straightforward once you understand the rules of forming superlatives. Here are some tips to help you avoid this common mistake:
1. **Know the word**: Determine whether the adjective or adverb you are using is short (one syllable) or long (two syllables or more).
2. **Use only one form**: If it’s a short word, add “-est” (e.g., tallest, smallest). If it’s a long word, use “most” (e.g., most beautiful, most interesting).
3. **Practice**: The more you practice using superlatives correctly, the more natural it will become. Try writing sentences using both forms and read them aloud to hear the difference.
4. **Proofread**: Always proofread your writing to catch any grammatical errors, including double superlatives.
Exercises to Practice
Here are some exercises to help you practice avoiding double superlatives:
1. Identify the error in the following sentence and correct it: “This is the most fastest car I have ever driven.”
– Answer: “This is the fastest car I have ever driven.”
2. Rewrite the following sentence to remove the double superlative: “She is the most prettiest girl at the party.”
– Answer: “She is the prettiest girl at the party.”
3. Correct the double superlative: “He is the most smartest student in the class.”
– Answer: “He is the smartest student in the class.”
4. Identify and correct the error: “This is the most worst mistake you could make.”
– Answer: “This is the worst mistake you could make.”
Common Mistakes and How to Correct Them
Even native speakers sometimes make mistakes with superlatives, especially in informal speech. Here are some common mistakes and how to correct them:
1. **Using “most” with one-syllable adjectives**:
– Incorrect: “He is the most tall boy in the class.”
– Correct: “He is the tallest boy in the class.”
2. **Using “most” with adjectives that already end in “-est”**:
– Incorrect: “This is the most easiest test I’ve ever taken.”
– Correct: “This is the easiest test I’ve ever taken.”
3. **Using both “most” and “-est” together**:
– Incorrect: “She is the most happiest person I know.”
– Correct: “She is the happiest person I know.”
Exceptions to the Rule
While the rules for forming superlatives are generally straightforward, there are a few exceptions. Some adjectives and adverbs have irregular superlative forms. Here are a few examples:
– Good -> Best
– Bad -> Worst
– Far -> Farthest or Furthest
It’s important to memorize these irregular forms as they do not follow the typical rules for forming superlatives.
The Role of Context
In some cases, the use of double superlatives can be found in poetry, literature, or informal speech for stylistic reasons. For example, a poet might use a double superlative to emphasize a particular point or to fit a specific meter or rhyme scheme. However, in formal writing and speech, it is best to avoid double superlatives to maintain clarity and correctness.
Stylistic Use in Literature
As mentioned earlier, authors like Shakespeare have used double superlatives for dramatic effect. While this can add a layer of depth to literary works, it’s important to recognize that such usage is an exception rather than the norm. When writing essays, reports, or any form of formal communication, adhering to standard grammatical rules is crucial.
Superlatives in Different Dialects
It’s worth noting that different dialects of English may have varying levels of acceptance for double superlatives. For example, in some regional dialects or forms of colloquial speech, double superlatives might be more common and less stigmatized. However, in standard American and British English, double superlatives are generally considered incorrect.
Dialectal Variations
In some Southern American English dialects, you might hear double superlatives more frequently. While this is a fascinating aspect of linguistic diversity, it’s essential to be aware of the standard rules, especially if you’re aiming for formal or academic writing.
Conclusion
Understanding and correctly using superlatives is a crucial aspect of mastering English grammar. Double superlatives can be a common pitfall, but with practice and awareness, you can avoid this mistake. Remember to use only one form of the superlative—either by adding “-est” to short words or using “most” with longer words. By doing so, you will ensure that your speech and writing are clear, concise, and grammatically correct.
Whether you are a native speaker looking to polish your grammar or a language learner aiming to master English, being mindful of superlatives will undoubtedly enhance your communication skills. Happy learning!
