What is the Comparative of Good: A Comprehensive Guide

The comparative of good helps you articulate enhanced qualities or benefits. compare.edu.vn offers a detailed exploration of the comparative forms of “good,” along with examples and usage tips, making it easier to choose the right words for your comparisons and understand superlative adjectives and comparative adjectives. Explore the nuances of language and express comparisons with confidence.

1. Understanding the Basics of Comparative Adjectives

Comparative adjectives are essential tools in the English language, allowing us to compare two nouns to show which has a higher degree of a particular quality. They are used to express differences, enhancements, or reductions in characteristics. Mastering the use of comparative adjectives can significantly enhance your writing and speaking skills, enabling you to articulate comparisons with precision and clarity. This section will delve into the fundamental principles of comparative adjectives, providing a solid foundation for more advanced topics.

1.1. Definition and Purpose

A comparative adjective compares two nouns, indicating which one possesses a certain quality to a greater extent. These adjectives are crucial for making distinctions and highlighting the superior attributes of one item over another. The basic structure for using a comparative adjective is:

Noun (subject) + verb + comparative adjective + than + noun (object)

For example, “My car is faster than yours” shows that the speaker’s car has a higher degree of speed compared to the other person’s car.

1.2. Regular Forms of Comparative Adjectives

The formation of regular comparative adjectives depends on the number of syllables in the base adjective.

• One-Syllable Adjectives: Generally, you add “-er” to the end of the adjective.

  • Examples:
    • Tall → Taller
    • Short → Shorter
    • Fast → Faster
    • Old → Older

• One-Syllable Adjectives with Consonant-Vowel-Consonant (CVC) Pattern: For adjectives with this pattern, double the final consonant before adding “-er.”

  • Examples:
    • Big → Bigger
    • Fat → Fatter
    • Hot → Hotter
    • Sad → Sadder

• Two-Syllable Adjectives: For many two-syllable adjectives, you add “-er” or use “more” before the adjective. The choice often depends on the specific word and its common usage.

  • Examples:
    • Happy → Happier
    • Simple → Simpler
    • Tilted → More tilted
    • Tangled → More tangled

• Adjectives Ending in “-y”: Change the “y” to “i” before adding “-er.”

  • Examples:
    • Easy → Easier
    • Busy → Busier
    • Funny → Funnier
    • Pretty → Prettier

• Three or More Syllable Adjectives: Use “more” before the adjective to form the comparative.

  • Examples:
    • Important → More important
    • Expensive → More expensive
    • Beautiful → More beautiful
    • Difficult → More difficult

1.3. Examples in Sentences

• “This book is more interesting than that one.”
• “She is taller than her brother.”
• “The weather today is hotter than yesterday.”
• “Living in the city is more expensive than living in the countryside.”
• “He is happier now that he has a new job.”

1.4. Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Double Comparatives: Avoid using both “more” and “-er” together (e.g., “more taller”).
• Incorrect Syllable Count: Be mindful of the number of syllables when deciding whether to use “-er” or “more.”
• Misspelling: Pay attention to spelling changes, such as doubling consonants or changing “y” to “i.”
• Using “Than” Correctly: Always use “than” to introduce the second item being compared.
• Overgeneralization: Not all two-syllable adjectives can take “-er”; when in doubt, use “more.”

1.5. Why Mastering Comparative Adjectives is Important

Mastering comparative adjectives is crucial for several reasons:

• Clarity in Communication: Using comparative adjectives correctly allows you to express differences accurately and clearly.
• Effective Writing: Properly used comparative adjectives enhance the quality of your writing by making it more descriptive and engaging.
• Professionalism: In professional settings, using correct grammar and vocabulary, including comparative adjectives, demonstrates attention to detail and competence.
• Academic Success: In academic writing, comparative adjectives are essential for comparing and contrasting information, which is a fundamental skill.

By understanding and correctly applying the rules for forming and using comparative adjectives, you can significantly improve your ability to communicate effectively and precisely.

2. The Irregular Comparative: “Better”

While many adjectives follow predictable rules for forming comparative adjectives, some, like “good,” have irregular forms. Understanding these irregular forms is crucial for accurate and effective communication. The comparative form of “good” is “better,” and this section will explore its usage, nuances, and provide detailed examples to ensure a comprehensive understanding.

2.1. Why “Good” is Irregular

The adjective “good” does not follow the standard rules for forming comparative adjectives. Instead of adding “-er” or using “more,” it has a unique comparative form: “better.” This irregularity stems from the word’s historical development and common usage in the English language.

2.2. Definition and Usage of “Better”

“Better” is used to indicate a higher quality, standard, or degree of something compared to another. It implies improvement, superiority, or greater suitability. The structure for using “better” in a comparative sentence is:

Noun (subject) + verb + better + than + noun (object)

This construction allows you to clearly express that one item is superior to another in terms of goodness or quality.

2.3. Examples in Sentences

Here are several examples demonstrating the correct usage of “better”:

• “This apple pie tastes better than the one I made last week.”
• “Studying in the library is better than studying at home because it’s quieter.”
• “His health is better now that he’s been exercising regularly.”
• “Investing in renewable energy is better for the environment than relying on fossil fuels.”
• “A quiet evening at home sounds better than going to a crowded party.”

2.4. Common Mistakes to Avoid with “Better”

• Using “More Good”: It is incorrect to say “more good” as the comparative form of “good.” The correct form is always “better.”
• Misspelling “Better”: Ensure the correct spelling of “better.”
• Incorrect Use of “Than”: Always use “than” when comparing two items or actions.
• Confusing with “Well”: “Good” is an adjective, while “well” is an adverb. For example, you might say, “He plays the piano well,” but to compare his skill to another person, you would say, “He plays the piano better than his sister.”

2.5. Using “Better” with Different Contexts

“Better” can be used in a variety of contexts, including:

• Health: “She feels better after taking the medicine.”
• Skills: “He is a better swimmer than I am.”
• Food: “This restaurant’s food is better than the one we went to last night.”
• Conditions: “The weather is better today than it was yesterday.”
• Choices: “Choosing a hybrid car is better for fuel efficiency.”

2.6. Idiomatic Expressions with “Better”

• “Had Better”: This expression is used to give advice or express a strong recommendation.

  • Example: “You had better finish your homework before going out.”

• “Get Better”: This phrase means to improve in health or condition.

  • Example: “I hope you get better soon.”

• “Better Late Than Never”: This idiom suggests that it’s preferable to do something late than not at all.

  • Example: “Better late than never, he finally apologized for his mistake.”

• “One Better”: This means to surpass or outdo someone.

  • Example: “He tried to impress her with his car, but she went one better by showing up in a helicopter.”

2.7. Importance of Using “Better” Correctly

Using “better” correctly is crucial for clear and effective communication. It ensures that your comparisons are accurate and that your message is easily understood. Misusing the comparative form of “good” can lead to confusion and undermine the credibility of your communication.

2.8. Practice Exercise

Fill in the blanks with the correct comparative form:

1. This coffee tastes __________ than the one I had yesterday.
2. Reading a book is __________ than watching television.
3. Her grades are __________ this semester compared to last semester.
4. Living in the countryside is __________ for your health.
5. Learning a new language is __________ for your career prospects.

Answers:

1. better
2. better
3. better
4. better
5. better

By mastering the usage of “better,” you enhance your ability to make accurate and effective comparisons, which is essential for both everyday conversations and professional communications.

3. Superlative of “Good”: “Best”

While “better” allows us to compare two items, the superlative form, “best,” is used to describe something that excels above all others. This section will delve into the usage, nuances, and applications of “best,” providing a comprehensive understanding of how to use this powerful adjective effectively.

3.1. Definition and Purpose of “Best”

“Best” is the superlative form of “good,” indicating the highest quality, standard, or degree of something. It is used when comparing one item against all others in a group, signifying that it surpasses all in terms of goodness or excellence. The structure for using “best” in a sentence is:

Noun (subject) + verb + the + best + noun (object/group)

This construction makes it clear that the subject is superior to all others within the specified group.

3.2. Examples in Sentences

Here are several examples illustrating the correct usage of “best”:

• “This is the best chocolate cake I have ever tasted.”
• “She is the best student in the class.”
• “Summer is the best time of year to visit Europe.”
• “He is considered the best doctor in the hospital.”
• “Honesty is the best policy.”

3.3. Common Mistakes to Avoid with “Best”

• Using “Most Good”: It is incorrect to say “most good” as the superlative form of “good.” The correct form is always “best.”
• Not Using “The”: In most cases, “best” should be preceded by “the” to indicate its superlative nature. However, there are exceptions, such as when used in titles or headings.
• Misspelling “Best”: Ensure the correct spelling of “best.”
• Overusing “Best”: While “best” is a powerful adjective, it should be used judiciously to maintain its impact.

3.4. Using “Best” in Different Contexts

“Best” can be used in various contexts, including:

• Achievements: “She received the best score on the exam.”
• Preferences: “Ice cream is the best dessert.”
• Recommendations: “This is the best restaurant in town.”
• Qualities: “Patience is one of the best virtues.”
• Opportunities: “Now is the best time to invest in the stock market.”

3.5. Idiomatic Expressions with “Best”

• “Do Your Best”: This means to make the greatest effort possible.

  • Example: “Just do your best on the test, and don’t worry about the results.”

• “All the Best”: This is a common way to wish someone well.

  • Example: “I wish you all the best in your future endeavors.”

• “At Best”: This means in the most favorable or optimistic view.

  • Example: “At best, the project will be completed by next month.”

• “The Best of Both Worlds”: This refers to a situation where you can enjoy the advantages of two different things at the same time.

  • Example: “Living in the suburbs offers the best of both worlds: a quiet environment and easy access to the city.”

3.6. “Best” vs. “Better”: Knowing the Difference

It’s crucial to differentiate between “better” and “best.” “Better” is used to compare two items, while “best” is used to indicate the highest degree among three or more items.

• Better: “This coffee is better than the one I had yesterday.” (comparing two coffees)
• Best: “This is the best coffee I have ever had.” (comparing this coffee to all other coffees)

3.7. Why Mastering “Best” is Important

Using “best” correctly is essential for conveying the highest degree of quality or excellence. It allows you to express your opinions and evaluations with precision and confidence. Proper usage of “best” enhances the clarity and impact of your communication.

3.8. Practice Exercise

Fill in the blanks with the correct superlative form:

1. This is __________ movie I’ve ever seen.
2. She is __________ player on the team.
3. Summer is __________ time to travel.
4. He is considered __________ chef in the city.
5. Honesty is __________ policy in any relationship.

Answers:

1. the best
2. the best
3. the best
4. the best
5. the best

By mastering the use of “best,” you improve your ability to express superlative qualities and make impactful statements in your daily and professional interactions.

4. Comparative and Superlative in Real-Life Scenarios

Understanding how to use comparative and superlative forms of adjectives in various real-life situations can significantly improve your communication skills. This section provides practical examples of how “better” and “best” are used in everyday scenarios, professional settings, and academic contexts.

4.1. Everyday Conversations

In daily conversations, comparative and superlative adjectives are used to express preferences, make comparisons, and share opinions.

• Food:
  • “This pizza is better than the one we ordered last week.”
  • “This restaurant serves the best sushi in town.”
• Travel:
  • “Traveling by train is better than driving during rush hour.”
  • “Hawaii is the best vacation destination for beaches.”
• Entertainment:
  • “This movie is better than the book it’s based on.”
  • “That concert was the best performance I’ve ever seen.”
• Personal Preferences:
  • “I think tea is better than coffee in the evening.”
  • “Summer is the best season because I love the warm weather.”

4.2. Professional Settings

In professional environments, using comparative and superlative adjectives effectively can enhance your ability to present ideas, evaluate performance, and make informed decisions.

• Performance Evaluation:
  • “John’s performance this quarter is better than last quarter.”
  • “Our sales team has the best record in the company.”
• Project Management:
  • “This strategy is better than our previous approach.”
  • “This is the best solution for our current problem.”
• Marketing and Sales:
  • “Our new product is better than the competition’s.”
  • “We offer the best customer service in the industry.”
• Team Collaboration:
  • “Working together is better than working in isolation.”
  • “This is the best team I’ve ever worked with.”

4.3. Academic Contexts

In academic writing and discussions, comparative and superlative adjectives are crucial for analyzing information, comparing theories, and presenting research findings.

• Essays and Research Papers:
  • “The evidence suggests that this theory is better than the alternative.”
  • “This study provides the best available data on the subject.”
• Presentations:
  • “Our findings indicate that this method is better for achieving the desired outcome.”
  • “This graph represents the best visualization of the data.”
• Class Discussions:
  • “I believe this approach is better because it considers multiple factors.”
  • “In my opinion, this is the best example to illustrate the concept.”

4.4. Examples in Decision Making

Comparative and superlative adjectives are frequently used when making decisions, helping to weigh options and identify the most suitable choice.

• Purchasing Decisions:
  • “This laptop is better than the previous model because it has a faster processor.”
  • “This brand offers the best value for money.”
• Career Choices:
  • “This job offer is better than the one I received last week because it offers more opportunities for growth.”
  • “Becoming a doctor is the best career path for me because I want to help people.”
• Health and Wellness:
  • “Exercising regularly is better than being sedentary.”
  • “Eating a balanced diet is the best way to maintain good health.”
• Educational Choices:
  • “Studying online is better for me because it allows me to learn at my own pace.”
  • “Attending a top university is the best way to advance my career.”

4.5. Comparative and Superlative in Creative Writing

In creative writing, these adjectives add depth and vividness to descriptions, making the narrative more engaging.

• Character Descriptions:
  • “She was better at solving mysteries than anyone else in the town.”
  • “He was known as the best storyteller in the village.”
• Setting Descriptions:
  • “The view from the mountain was better than any postcard.”
  • “This was the best place to watch the sunset.”
• Plot Development:
  • “The hero’s plan was better than the villain’s, leading to a triumphant victory.”
  • “This was the best opportunity for the protagonist to change his life.”

4.6. Tips for Using Comparative and Superlative Adjectives Effectively

• Context Matters: Always consider the context when choosing between “better” and “best.”
• Clarity is Key: Ensure your comparisons are clear and easy to understand.
• Avoid Overuse: Use comparative and superlative adjectives judiciously to maintain their impact.
• Proofread: Always proofread your writing to catch any errors in adjective usage.

By understanding these real-life scenarios and applying the tips, you can effectively use comparative and superlative adjectives to enhance your communication in various aspects of life.

5. Enhancing Your Vocabulary: Synonyms for “Better” and “Best”

To enrich your language skills and avoid repetition, it is helpful to know synonyms for “better” and “best.” This section explores various alternatives that can add nuance and sophistication to your writing and speaking.

5.1. Synonyms for “Better”

Using synonyms for “better” can make your language more varied and engaging. Here are some alternatives with explanations and examples:

• Superior: Indicates a higher quality or rank.
  • Example: “This model is superior to the previous one in terms of performance.”
• Improved: Indicates that something has become better than before.
  • Example: “Her health has improved since she started exercising.”
• Enhanced: Suggests that something has been made better or more effective.
  • Example: “The software has enhanced security features.”
• Finer: Implies a higher quality or more refined state.
  • Example: “This wine is finer than the one we had last night.”
• Preferable: Indicates that something is more desirable or suitable.
  • Example: “A quiet evening at home is preferable to going to a crowded party.”
• Greater: Suggests a larger degree or extent.
  • Example: “There is a greater chance of success if we work together.”
• More Excellent: A more formal way of saying “better.”
  • Example: “His performance was more excellent than expected.”
• Advanced: Suggests progress or improvement.
  • Example: “The advanced features of this camera make it a better choice.”
• Refined: Indicates that something has been improved through careful adjustment.
  • Example: “This recipe is a refined version of the original.”

5.2. Synonyms for “Best”

Using synonyms for “best” can add emphasis and variety to your expression of superlative qualities. Here are some alternatives with explanations and examples:

• Finest: Implies the highest quality or most refined state.
  • Example: “This is the finest silk available.”
• Greatest: Indicates the largest extent or degree.
  • Example: “He is considered the greatest athlete of all time.”
• Top: Suggests the highest position or rank.
  • Example: “This is the top restaurant in the city.”
• Prime: Indicates the best quality or most suitable time.
  • Example: “This is the prime location for a new business.”
• Supreme: Suggests the highest level of authority or excellence.
  • Example: “She is the supreme authority on the subject.”
• Ultimate: Indicates the final or most important thing.
  • Example: “This is the ultimate goal for our team.”
• Excellent: A more straightforward way of saying “best.”
  • Example: “This is an excellent choice for your needs.”
• Outstanding: Suggests that something is exceptionally good.
  • Example: “Her performance was outstanding.”
• Unrivaled: Indicates that something has no equal.
  • Example: “This service is unrivaled in the industry.”
• Optimal: Suggests the most favorable or desirable condition.
  • Example: “This is the optimal solution for our problem.”
• Leading: Indicates that something is at the forefront or most advanced.
  • Example: “This company is a leading provider of technology solutions.”
• Paramount: Suggests the greatest importance or significance.
  • Example: “Safety is of paramount importance.”

5.3. Examples in Sentences

Here are examples showcasing how to use these synonyms in sentences:

• Instead of: “This is better than that.”
  • “This is superior to that.”
  • “This is preferable to that.”
• Instead of: “This is the best option.”
  • “This is the finest option.”
  • “This is the optimal option.”
• Instead of: “He is a better player.”
  • “He is a more excellent player.”
  • “He is a superior player.”
• Instead of: “She is the best student.”
  • “She is the top student.”
  • “She is the greatest student.”

5.4. Why Using Synonyms is Important

Using a variety of synonyms for “better” and “best” is important for several reasons:

• Avoidance of Repetition: It prevents your writing and speaking from becoming monotonous.
• Enhanced Clarity: Different synonyms can add nuance and precision to your message.
• Increased Engagement: Varied language keeps your audience interested.
• Improved Professionalism: Demonstrates a strong command of the English language.

5.5. Tips for Choosing the Right Synonym

• Consider the Context: Choose a synonym that fits the specific situation and meaning you want to convey.
• Understand Nuances: Be aware of the subtle differences in meaning between synonyms.
• Use a Thesaurus: Consult a thesaurus for a wide range of options.
• Read Widely: Pay attention to how different synonyms are used in high-quality writing.

By expanding your vocabulary with synonyms for “better” and “best,” you can express yourself more effectively and engage your audience with richer, more varied language.

6. Common Mistakes and How to Correct Them

Even with a solid understanding of comparative and superlative forms, it’s easy to make mistakes. This section identifies common errors related to “better” and “best” and provides practical advice on how to correct them, ensuring your writing and speech are accurate and clear.

6.1. Incorrect Use of “More Good” and “Most Good”

One of the most common mistakes is using “more good” instead of “better” and “most good” instead of “best.”

• Incorrect: “This is more good than that.”
• Correct: “This is better than that.”
• Incorrect: “This is most good.”
• Correct: “This is the best.”

How to Correct: Always remember that “better” is the comparative form of “good,” and “best” is the superlative form. Replace “more good” and “most good” with the correct forms.

6.2. Misusing “Good” and “Well”

“Good” is an adjective, while “well” is an adverb. Confusing these can lead to incorrect sentence construction.

• Incorrect: “He plays piano good.”
• Correct: “He plays piano well.”
• Incorrect: “He plays piano gooder than his sister.”
• Correct: “He plays piano better than his sister.”

How to Correct: Use “good” to describe nouns and “well” to describe how an action is performed. When comparing performance, use “better.”

6.3. Using “Better” Without “Than”

When comparing two items, it’s essential to use “than” to indicate what is being compared.

• Incorrect: “This coffee is better.”
• Correct: “This coffee is better than the one I had yesterday.”

How to Correct: Always include “than” when comparing two items using “better.”

6.4. Omitting “The” Before “Best”

In most cases, “best” should be preceded by “the” to indicate its superlative nature.

• Incorrect: “This is best movie I’ve ever seen.”
• Correct: “This is the best movie I’ve ever seen.”

How to Correct: Remember to include “the” before “best” in most sentences. Exceptions occur in titles or headings.

6.5. Overusing “Best”

While “best” is a powerful adjective, overuse can diminish its impact.

• Overused: “This is the best, best, best movie ever.”
• Better: “This is the best movie I’ve ever seen.” (Use synonyms like “finest,” “greatest,” or “outstanding” in other sentences.)

How to Correct: Use synonyms for “best” to add variety and maintain the impact of your language.

6.6. Incorrect Spelling

Misspelling “better” and “best” can undermine the credibility of your writing.

• Incorrect: “Beter” or “Bester”
• Correct: “Better” and “Best”

How to Correct: Always double-check the spelling of these words.

6.7. Confusing “Good,” “Better,” and “Best” with Similar Words

Sometimes, “good,” “better,” and “best” can be confused with words that sound similar or have related meanings.

• Good vs. Well: As mentioned earlier, “good” is an adjective, while “well” is an adverb.
• Better vs. Butter: “Better” is a comparative adjective, while “butter” is a noun.
• Best vs. Beast: “Best” is a superlative adjective, while “beast” is a noun.

How to Correct: Pay close attention to the context and ensure you are using the correct word with the appropriate meaning.

6.8. Examples of Corrected Sentences

Here are some examples of corrected sentences to illustrate the points above:

• Incorrect: “This book is more good than that one.”
• Correct: “This book is better than that one.”
• Incorrect: “She sings good.”
• Correct: “She sings well.”
• Incorrect: “This is best coffee I’ve ever had.”
• Correct: “This is the best coffee I’ve ever had.”
• Incorrect: “He is a better player, period.”
• Correct: “He is a better player than John.”

6.9. Practice Exercise

Identify and correct the mistakes in the following sentences:

1. This cake is more good than the one I made yesterday.
2. She plays the violin good.
3. This is best book I’ve ever read.
4. He is better.
5. This is most good solution.

Answers:

1. Corrected: This cake is better than the one I made yesterday.
2. Corrected: She plays the violin well.
3. Corrected: This is the best book I’ve ever read.
4. Corrected: He is better than his brother. (Add “than” to complete the comparison.)
5. Corrected: This is the best solution.

By understanding and correcting these common mistakes, you can ensure that your use of “better” and “best” is accurate, clear, and effective.

7. Advanced Usage of “Better” and “Best”

Beyond the basic comparisons, “better” and “best” can be used in more nuanced and complex ways. This section explores advanced applications of these words, including their use in idiomatic expressions, conditional sentences, and other sophisticated constructions.

7.1. Idiomatic Expressions with “Better”

Idiomatic expressions add color and depth to language. Here are some common idioms using “better” and how to use them correctly:

• “Had Better”: This expression is used to give advice or express a strong recommendation. It implies a potential negative consequence if the advice is not followed.
  • Example: “You had better finish your homework before going out, or you’ll fail the test.”
• “Get Better”: This phrase means to improve in health or condition.
  • Example: “I hope you get better soon and can return to work.”
• “Better Late Than Never”: This idiom suggests that it’s preferable to do something late than not at all.
  • Example: “Better late than never, he finally apologized for his mistake, even though it took him years.”
• “One Better”: This means to surpass or outdo someone.
  • Example: “He tried to impress her with his new car, but she went one better by showing up in a private jet.”

7.2. Idiomatic Expressions with “Best”

• “Do Your Best”: This means to make the greatest effort possible.
  • Example: “Just do your best on the exam, and don’t worry about the results. That’s all anyone can ask.”
• “All the Best”: This is a common way to wish someone well.
  • Example: “I wish you all the best in your future endeavors. May you achieve all your goals.”
• “At Best”: This means in the most favorable or optimistic view.
  • Example: “At best, the project will be completed by next month, but it could take longer.”
• “The Best of Both Worlds”: This refers to a situation where you can enjoy the advantages of two different things at the same time.
  • Example: “Living in the suburbs offers the best of both worlds: a quiet environment and easy access to the city.”

7.3. Using “Better” in Conditional Sentences

“Better” can be used in conditional sentences to express preferences or hypothetical improvements.

• Example 1: “If I had more time, I could do a better job on this project.” (Expressing a hypothetical improvement)
• Example 2: “It would be better if we started the meeting earlier to accommodate everyone’s schedule.” (Expressing a preference)

7.4. “The Sooner, the Better”

This construction expresses that an action is more desirable if it happens earlier rather than later.

• Example: “The sooner we start the project, the better. We need to meet the deadline.”

7.5. “Better Off”

This phrase means to be in a more advantageous situation.

• Example: “She is better off now that she has a stable job.”

7.6. “Know Better”

This expression means to be wise or experienced enough not to do something.

• Example: “He should know better than to trust strangers with his personal information.”

7.7. “Best Bet”

This phrase refers to the most promising or reliable option.

• Example: “Our best bet is to invest in renewable energy.”

7.8. “Best-Case Scenario”

This term refers to the most optimistic possible outcome.

• Example: “In a best-case scenario, the company will double its profits this year.”

7.9. Examples in Complex Sentences

Here are some examples of how to use “better” and “best” in