✦ Lesson 3 · Grammar 1
The superlative of short adjectives
We use the superlative to say that something is number one: more than all the others. With short adjectives (one syllable, or two syllables ending in -y) we say the + adjective + -est.
the + adjective + -est
Just add -est
small → the smallest · tall → the tallest · cold → the coldest · long → the longest
Ends in -e: add -st
nice → the nicest · large → the largest
One vowel + one consonant: double it
big → the biggest · hot → the hottest · sad → the saddest
Ends in -y: change y to -iest
funny → the funniest · ugly → the ugliest · scary → the scariest
On the planets
- Mercury is the smallest planet.
- Jupiter is the biggest planet.
- Venus is the hottest planet.
⚠️ Remember
We always say the before the superlative: "Mercury is the smallest planet", not "Mercury is smallest planet".