Comparative and superlative adjectives are essential for expressing comparisons between things. Mastering their correct usage can significantly enhance your writing. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of comparative adjectives, including their formation, usage, and examples to help you confidently answer the question: “Which Of The Following Sentences Correctly Uses A Comparative Adjective?”
Understanding Comparative Adjectives
Comparative adjectives are used to compare two nouns or pronouns, highlighting the differences in their qualities or characteristics. They indicate which noun possesses a particular quality to a greater or lesser extent. For example, “taller,” “smaller,” “faster,” and “more intelligent” are all comparative adjectives.
Forming Comparative Adjectives
The formation of comparative adjectives depends on the number of syllables in the original adjective:
One-Syllable Adjectives: Add “-er” to the end of the adjective. If the adjective ends in a single consonant preceded by a single vowel, double the consonant before adding “-er” (e.g., big – bigger, hot – hotter). If the adjective ends in “-y,” change the “y” to “i” before adding “-er” (e.g., happy – happier).
Two-Syllable Adjectives: Generally, add “more” or “less” before the adjective (e.g., careful – more careful, expensive – less expensive). However, some two-syllable adjectives can also take the “-er” ending, especially those ending in “-y” (e.g., happy – happier) or those with stress on the second syllable (e.g., polite – politer). Often, both forms are acceptable (e.g., quieter or more quiet).
Three or More Syllable Adjectives: Always use “more” or “less” before the adjective (e.g., beautiful – more beautiful, intelligent – more intelligent).
Irregular Comparative Adjectives
Some adjectives have irregular comparative forms that don’t follow the standard rules. Common examples include:
- Good – Better
- Bad – Worse
- Little (amount) – Less
- Far (distance) – Farther/Further
- Many/Much – More
Using Comparative Adjectives in Sentences
Comparative adjectives are typically used in sentences with the following structure:
Noun/Pronoun + Comparative Adjective + “than” + Noun/Pronoun
For example:
- My car is faster than your car.
- This book is more interesting than that one.
- She is taller than her brother.
Identifying Correct Comparative Adjective Usage
To determine if a sentence correctly uses a comparative adjective, consider these points:
- Comparison: Is the sentence comparing two things?
- Form: Is the comparative adjective formed correctly based on the number of syllables and any irregular forms?
- “Than”: Is the word “than” used to connect the two things being compared?
Examples:
Correct:
- The cat is smaller than the dog. (One-syllable, correct “-er” ending, uses “than”)
- This problem is more complex than the previous one. (Three-syllable, uses “more,” uses “than”)
- He is a better singer than she is. (Irregular form, uses “than”)
Incorrect:
- This is the most beautiful painting. (This uses a superlative adjective, not comparative)
- Her dress is prettier that mine. (Incorrect use of “that” instead of “than”)
- This house is big than that one. (Missing the “-er” ending for a one-syllable adjective)
Conclusion
Understanding how to form and use comparative adjectives correctly is crucial for effective communication. By applying the rules outlined in this guide, you can confidently identify “which of the following sentences correctly uses a comparative adjective” and enhance your overall writing skills. Remember to pay attention to the number of syllables, irregular forms, and the use of “than” in your comparisons.
Need more grammar practice? Explore resources like Albert.io for comprehensive exercises and detailed explanations.
