In the vast and nuanced world of English grammar, superlatives play a crucial role in helping us express extremes and comparisons. They allow us to say that something is the “biggest,” the “fastest,” or the “most beautiful.” However, a common mistake that even native speakers sometimes make is the use of double superlatives. This error can make sentences sound awkward and can sometimes lead to confusion. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of double superlatives, explore why they are considered incorrect, and learn how to avoid them.
Understanding Superlatives
Before diving into double superlatives, it’s essential to have a firm grasp of what superlatives are. Superlatives are a form of adjective or adverb used to describe the highest degree of a quality among three or more items. For example, in the phrase “the tallest building,” “tallest” is a superlative adjective because it indicates that no other building is taller.
Superlatives are usually formed in one of two ways:
1. **Short adjectives**: By adding “-est” to the end of the word.
– Examples: big -> biggest, tall -> tallest, fast -> fastest.
2. **Long adjectives**: By using “most” before the adjective.
– Examples: beautiful -> most beautiful, expensive -> most expensive.
Irregular Superlatives
Some adjectives have irregular superlative forms that don’t follow the typical rules. These irregularities often catch learners off guard. Here are a few common examples:
– good -> best
– bad -> worst
– far -> farthest/furthest
Understanding these basic rules is crucial for avoiding double superlatives.
What Are Double Superlatives?
A double superlative occurs when two forms of the superlative are used together, which is redundant and grammatically incorrect. Essentially, it means using both the “-est” ending and “most” (or “least”) simultaneously.
For example:
– Incorrect: “This is the most tallest building.”
– Correct: “This is the tallest building.”
The incorrect sentence uses both “most” and the “-est” ending, which is unnecessary and results in a double superlative.
Why Are Double Superlatives Incorrect?
Double superlatives are considered incorrect because they are redundant. In English, the rules for forming superlatives are clear: you either add “-est” to the end of the adjective or use “most” before it, but not both. Using both is like saying “more better” instead of “better.” It adds an extra layer of comparison that is unnecessary and can make the sentence harder to understand.
Historical Context
Interestingly, the misuse of double superlatives can sometimes be traced back to historical usage. In Old and Middle English, double comparatives and superlatives were more common and considered acceptable. For example, Geoffrey Chaucer, a prominent Middle English poet, used double superlatives in his work. However, modern English has since streamlined these rules, and double superlatives are no longer considered correct.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even with a solid understanding of superlatives, it’s easy to slip up and use double superlatives. Here are some common scenarios where this mistake might occur and how to avoid them.
1. Adjectives Ending in “-y”
Adjectives ending in “-y” can be tricky because they change form when made superlative. For example:
– Incorrect: “She is the most happiest person I know.”
– Correct: “She is the happiest person I know.”
The correct form changes “happy” to “happiest,” so there’s no need to add “most.”
2. Long Adjectives
When dealing with long adjectives, it’s important to remember that “most” is used instead of the “-est” ending:
– Incorrect: “He is the most intelligentest student in the class.”
– Correct: “He is the most intelligent student in the class.”
The word “intelligent” is a long adjective, so “most” is the appropriate superlative form.
3. Irregular Superlatives
Irregular adjectives can cause confusion because they don’t follow the typical rules. Memorizing these forms can help you avoid mistakes:
– Incorrect: “This is the most best cake I’ve ever tasted.”
– Correct: “This is the best cake I’ve ever tasted.”
The word “best” is already the superlative form of “good,” so adding “most” is unnecessary.
Practical Tips for Mastering Superlatives
Mastering the use of superlatives, including avoiding double superlatives, can significantly improve your English. Here are some practical tips to help you along the way.
1. Practice Regularly
One of the best ways to internalize the rules of superlatives is to practice regularly. Try writing sentences using different adjectives and their superlative forms. This will help reinforce the correct usage in your mind.
2. Read and Listen
Reading books, articles, and listening to native speakers can help you understand how superlatives are used in context. Pay attention to how superlatives are formed and used correctly.
3. Use Grammar Tools
There are numerous grammar tools and apps available that can help you check your writing for errors, including double superlatives. Tools like Grammarly can be beneficial for catching mistakes you might overlook.
4. Seek Feedback
Don’t hesitate to seek feedback from teachers, native speakers, or language exchange partners. They can provide valuable insights and correct any mistakes you might make.
Common Superlative Adjectives and Their Forms
To further aid your understanding, here is a list of common adjectives along with their comparative and superlative forms:
| Adjective | Comparative | Superlative |
|---|---|---|
| big | bigger | biggest |
| small | smaller | smallest |
| happy | happier | happiest |
| beautiful | more beautiful | most beautiful |
| expensive | more expensive | most expensive |
| good | better | best |
| bad | worse | worst |
| far | farther/further | farthest/furthest |
Advanced Topics: Double Comparatives
While this article focuses on double superlatives, it’s worth mentioning that double comparatives are another common error. Double comparatives occur when two forms of the comparative are used together, similar to double superlatives.
For example:
– Incorrect: “She is more taller than her brother.”
– Correct: “She is taller than her brother.”
Just like with superlatives, using both “more” and the “-er” ending is redundant and incorrect.
Why Are Double Comparatives Incorrect?
The reasoning behind why double comparatives are incorrect is the same as for double superlatives: redundancy. English grammar rules are designed to be efficient and clear, and double comparatives add unnecessary complexity.
Conclusion
Double superlatives are a common pitfall in English grammar, but with practice and attention to detail, they can be easily avoided. Remember that superlatives are used to express the highest degree of a quality, and using both forms simultaneously is redundant. By understanding the rules and practicing regularly, you can master the use of superlatives and improve your overall command of the English language.
Whether you’re a native speaker or learning English as a second language, being mindful of double superlatives will make your speech and writing clearer and more precise. Keep practicing, seek feedback, and immerse yourself in the language to continue improving. Happy learning!
