Which is better?

Comparatives and Superlatives

the sign of the compartive is -er  or more and the superlative -est or most

A comparative compares 2 things or 2 sets of things

This load of washing is dirtier than that load.

This photo is more appealing than the other.

A superlative compares lots of things

This is the dirtiest towel in the pile.

This photo is the most appealing of them all.

Often the superlative is used when it should be the comparative.

Which is better? Which is best?

better is the comparative form of the adjective good. It compares 2 things or 2 sets of things. 

Brand A is good, but brand B is better. Which is better? Brand B.

best is the superlative form of good. It compares a lot of things.

Brand A is good,  brands B and C are better, but brand D is the best.

Which is best? Brand D.

More examples:

You have 2 children, don't you? Which is the older?

Tom likes both apples and oranges. Which does he like better?

Don like lots of fruit. Which does he like the best?

 

Marriage notice

On the 3rd November, Jane, youngest daughter of Jim and Freda, was married to Robert, older son of Michael and Ann.

What does this tell you about the number of brothers and sisters of the happy couple?

Jane has at least 2 older sisters  and may also have brothers.

Robert has 1 younger brother and may have sisters.

Test yourself

1. I have 2 sons, James and David. James is the old…
2. Granny has 10 grandchildren. Amy is the young…
3. Which of the twins is the bright…?
4. Who in the class is the mo… intelligent?

Answers:

1. I have 2 sons, James and David. James is the older.
2. Granny has 10 grandchildren. Amy is the youngest.
3. Which of the twins is the brighter?
4. Who in the class is the most intelligent?