📘 Part of the Complete English Course · Elementary (A2), week 3
We use comparatives to compare two things (This account is cheaper than that one) and superlatives for the top of a group (It's the cheapest account).
The rules
Forms
| Adjective | Comparative | Superlative |
|---|---|---|
| short: cheap | cheaper (than) | the cheapest |
| ending -e: safe | safer | the safest |
| ending -y: easy | easier | the easiest |
| short, C-V-C: big | bigger | the biggest |
| long: expensive | more expensive | the most expensive |
| good / bad | better / worse | the best / the worst |
Remember
- Use 'than' after a comparative: Melbourne is colder than Brisbane.
- Use 'the' before a superlative: the best café in town.
- For two-syllable adjectives ending in -y, use -ier / -iest: busier, the busiest.
- To say things are the same: as cheap as, not as busy as.
Listen and repeat
- This bank account is cheaper than my old one.
- Online banking is easier than going to the branch.
- What's the best way to send money overseas?
- Sydney is more expensive than Adelaide.
Common mistakes
| Not this | Say this | Why |
|---|---|---|
| cheaper | Don't use 'more' with -er. | |
| the best | good → better → the best. | |
| bigger than | than, not then. |
Check yourself
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Frequently asked questions
When do we use Comparatives in English?
We use comparatives to compare two things (This account is cheaper than that one) and superlatives for the top of a group (It's the cheapest account). Use 'than' after a comparative: Melbourne is colder than Brisbane.
What are common mistakes with Comparatives?
Say 'cheaper', not 'more cheaper' (Don't use 'more' with -er). Say 'the best', not 'the most good' (good → better → the best). Say 'bigger than', not 'bigger then' (than, not then).
What level is this Comparatives lesson?
It's a Elementary (A2) lesson, week 3 of the free Complete English Course. It takes about 10 minutes and ends with a quiz.