Changing the Degrees of Comparison - Exercises
FAQs on Degree Change Exercises: Learn Positive, Comparative, and Superlative Forms
1. What is the degree of comparison in English?
The degree of comparison refers to the way adjectives and adverbs are modified to compare differences between objects or to express the highest degree of a quality. The three degrees are positive, comparative, and superlative.
2. What is the positive degree?
The positive degree is the basic form of an adjective or adverb that describes a quality without making any comparison. For example, "tall" in "She is tall."
3. How do you form the comparative degree?
The comparative degree is used to compare two things and is typically formed by adding "-er" to the end of the adjective or adverb (e.g., "taller," "faster") or using "more" before the adjective or adverb for longer words (e.g., "more beautiful," "more interesting").
4. How do you form the superlative degree?
The superlative degree is used to express the highest degree of a quality among three or more things. It is formed by adding "-est" to the end of the adjective or adverb (e.g., "tallest," "fastest") or using "most" before the adjective or adverb (e.g., "most beautiful," "most interesting").
5. When do you use "more" and "most" in comparison?
"More" is used with adjectives and adverbs that have two or more syllables to form the comparative degree, and "most" is used to form the superlative degree. For example, "more careful" (comparative) and "most careful" (superlative).
6. Can you give examples of irregular comparatives and superlatives?
Yes, some adjectives and adverbs have irregular forms. For example: "good" (positive), "better" (comparative), "best" (superlative); "bad" (positive), "worse" (comparative), "worst" (superlative).
7. How do you use comparisons with "as...as"?
The structure "as + adjective/adverb + as" is used to show that two things are equal in a certain quality. For example, "She is as tall as her brother" means both are of equal height.
8. What are some common mistakes in degree of comparison?
Common mistakes include mixing up comparative and superlative forms, using "more" or "most" with one-syllable adjectives that should use "-er" or "-est" (e.g., saying "more tall" instead of "taller"), and incorrect use of irregular forms.
9. How can I practise exercises on the degree of comparison?
You can practise by doing fill-in-the-blank exercises, rewriting sentences using comparative or superlative forms, or creating comparisons between different items. Online grammar exercises and worksheets are also useful.
10. Why is it important to understand degrees of comparison?
Understanding degrees of comparison is crucial for making accurate and clear comparisons in writing and speaking, enhancing your ability to express nuanced differences and similarities between objects or people.