Double Superlative
What Is a Double Superlative?
A double superlative is a grammar mistake caused by applying two ways of forming a superlative instead of one. Double superlatives are most commonly committed when someone uses "-est" and "most" at the same time (e.g., most tallest).Table of Contents
- Examples of Double Superlatives
- Avoiding Double Superlatives
- Why Understanding "Double Superlatives" Is Important
- Test Time!
Examples of Double Superlatives
- He is the most wisest. (should be wisest)
- She is the most quickest. (should be quickest)
Avoiding Double Superlatives
The rules for forming the superlatives of adjectives are summarized in the table below.Type of Adjective | Example | Rule | Example |
---|---|---|---|
one syllable | strong | add -est | strongest |
one syllable ending vowel consonant | big | double consonant and add -est | biggest |
more than one syllable | famous | precede with less or more | more famous less famous |
more than one syllable ending y | silly | remove y and add -ier for the less version, precede with less | sillier less silly |
irregular | good bad | There are no rules. | best worst |
- He is the most silliest person I know. (should be silliest)
- She is our most best player. (should be best)
- It's the worstest meal I've ever eaten. (should be worst)
- I tried most hardest. (should be hardest)
Why Understanding "Double Superlatives" Is Important
Double superlatives are more common in speech than in writing. In speech, they can often be written off as a moment of absentmindedness, but, in writing, a double superlative is a credibility-bashing grammar howler. Read more about forming superlatives.Key Point
- There are several ways to form a superlative. Apply the way that fits your word. If you apply two of the ways, you'll have created a serious mistake called a double superlative.
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Test Time!
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