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| The '''three degrees of comparison''' refers to the ], ], and ]. | |||
| The absolute refers to the most basic form of the adjective, absolute because it exists without being relative to another term. In the case of the adjective '']'', ''tall'' would be the absolute form of the adjective. In the case of the adjective '']'', ''enjoyable'' is the absolute form of the adjective. | |||
| The comparative form of the adjective is used to refer to the subject of the adjective relative to something else. For example, in the phrase, “He is taller than his father,” '']'' is the comparative form of the adjective tall. In the case of the adjective ''enjoyable,'' ''more enjoyable'' is the comparative form of the adjective. | |||
| The superlative form of the adjective is usually used to refer to the subject of the adjective as being the most extreme of three or more items being compared. (It is disputed whether to use the superlative there always have to be more than two items being compared.) In the phrase, “He is the tallest member of his family,” '']'' is the superlative form of the adjective. In the case of the adjective ''enjoyable'', ''the most enjoyable'' is the superlative form of the adjective. | |||
| == Rhetorical use of unbalanced comparatives == | |||
| In some contexts, such as advertising or political speeches, absolute and relative comparatives are intentionally employed in a way that invites a comparison, and yet the basis of comparison is not established. This is a common ] device used to create an implication of significance where one may not actually be present. Although such usage is common, it is not considered grammatical. | |||
| For example: | |||
| * Always! | |||
| * Why pay more? | |||
| * We work harder. | |||
| * We sell for less! | |||
| == See also == | |||
| * ] | |||
| ] | |||
Latest revision as of 12:28, 31 July 2012
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