Double superlatives are an intriguing and often misunderstood aspect of the English language. While they may seem like a simple error to those learning English, they actually offer a fascinating glimpse into the way people use language to emphasize their points. In this article, we will delve into the concept of double superlatives, exploring their grammatical structure, common usage, historical context, and how to avoid them in formal writing. By the end, you’ll have a comprehensive understanding of double superlatives and be better equipped to recognize and use superlatives correctly.
Understanding Double Superlatives
A double superlative occurs when two superlative forms are used together in a single phrase or sentence. This is generally considered incorrect in standard English grammar. To understand why, let’s first break down what a superlative is.
Superlatives are used to indicate the highest degree or the most extreme form of an adjective or adverb. For example, the superlative form of “big” is “biggest,” and the superlative form of “quickly” is “most quickly.” Superlatives are typically formed in one of two ways:
1. By adding the suffix “-est” to the end of the word (e.g., “small” becomes “smallest”).
2. By using the word “most” before the adjective or adverb (e.g., “interesting” becomes “most interesting”).
A double superlative occurs when both of these methods are used simultaneously. For example, saying “most tallest” or “most smartest” are instances of double superlatives. The correct forms would simply be “tallest” and “smartest.”
Why Do Double Superlatives Occur?
Double superlatives often occur due to a lack of understanding of grammatical rules or simply because of a desire to emphasize a point. In casual speech, people sometimes use double superlatives to convey a heightened sense of something. For example, someone might say, “This is the most best pizza I’ve ever had!” While this is incorrect, the speaker is attempting to emphasize just how good the pizza is.
Additionally, double superlatives can occur due to dialectal variations or linguistic transfer from other languages. In some dialects of English, particularly in informal settings, double superlatives may be more commonly accepted. Similarly, speakers of other languages that handle superlatives differently might inadvertently use double superlatives when speaking English.
Historical Context
Double superlatives are not a new phenomenon. Historical texts and literature show that even some of the greatest writers have used double superlatives. For example, in William Shakespeare’s play “Hamlet,” the character Ophelia says, “Thou hast cleft my heart in twain.” While this isn’t a double superlative, it shows that even Shakespeare played with language in ways that might be considered incorrect by modern standards.
Another example can be found in the works of Geoffrey Chaucer, the author of “The Canterbury Tales.” Chaucer’s use of double comparatives and double superlatives reflects the linguistic norms of Middle English, a time when the rules of English grammar were still evolving.
While historical use of double superlatives doesn’t justify their use in modern English, it does highlight the fluid and evolving nature of language.
Common Examples of Double Superlatives
To help illustrate the concept further, let’s look at some common examples of double superlatives and their correct forms:
1. Incorrect: “She is the most smartest student in the class.”
Correct: “She is the smartest student in the class.”
2. Incorrect: “This is the most best movie I’ve ever seen.”
Correct: “This is the best movie I’ve ever seen.”
3. Incorrect: “He is the most strongest athlete on the team.”
Correct: “He is the strongest athlete on the team.”
4. Incorrect: “This is the most worst experience I’ve ever had.”
Correct: “This is the worst experience I’ve ever had.”
5. Incorrect: “That was the most funnest day ever!”
Correct: “That was the funnest day ever!”
In each of these examples, the incorrect sentence uses both “most” and the “-est” suffix, resulting in a double superlative. The correct form uses only one method to form the superlative.
Double Superlatives in Different Contexts
While double superlatives are generally considered incorrect in formal writing, they can sometimes be found in different contexts:
1. **Informal Speech:** In casual conversations, people often use double superlatives to add emphasis or simply out of habit. While this is grammatically incorrect, it is often understood and accepted in informal settings.
2. **Regional Dialects:** Some regional dialects of English may use double superlatives more frequently than others. For example, in certain dialects of American English, double superlatives might be more commonly heard.
3. **Poetry and Literature:** Writers and poets sometimes use double superlatives for stylistic reasons. While this is not grammatically correct, it can add a certain rhythm or emphasis to the writing.
4. **Advertising and Marketing:** In advertising and marketing, double superlatives are sometimes used to create catchy slogans or emphasize a product’s qualities. For example, a commercial might say, “This is the most best toothpaste for your teeth!”
How to Avoid Double Superlatives
Avoiding double superlatives is relatively straightforward once you understand the rules of forming superlatives. Here are some tips to help you avoid making this common mistake:
1. **Learn the Rules:** Familiarize yourself with the rules of forming superlatives. Remember that you only need to use one method to form a superlative, either by adding “-est” or by using “most.”
2. **Practice:** Practice forming superlatives correctly. Write sentences using superlatives and check to make sure you haven’t used both methods.
3. **Read and Listen:** Pay attention to how superlatives are used in books, articles, and conversations. Notice when double superlatives are used incorrectly and how they can be corrected.
4. **Edit Your Writing:** When writing, take the time to review your work and check for double superlatives. If you find any, correct them by using only one method to form the superlative.
5. **Ask for Feedback:** If you’re unsure about your use of superlatives, ask a teacher, tutor, or native speaker for feedback. They can help you identify and correct any mistakes.
Conclusion
Double superlatives are a common but incorrect way of emphasizing the extreme degree of an adjective or adverb. While they may be used in informal speech, regional dialects, or stylistic writing, they are generally considered incorrect in standard English grammar. By understanding the rules for forming superlatives and practicing their correct use, you can avoid making this common mistake.
Remember, language is a tool for communication, and the goal is to be understood clearly and accurately. By mastering the use of superlatives, you’ll be better equipped to express yourself effectively and avoid common grammatical errors. So, the next time you’re tempted to use a double superlative, take a moment to consider the correct form and choose the most appropriate way to convey your message.
Happy learning!
