What is the Superlative for 'Pretty'?

The superlative form of the adjective "pretty" is prettiest.

Understanding Superlative Adjectives

Superlative adjectives are a fundamental part of English grammar used to describe an item that possesses a certain quality to the highest or lowest degree within a group of three or more things. They help us compare and highlight the extreme characteristic of one noun in relation to others.

For instance, if you have three flowers, one might be prettier than another, but one will be the prettiest of all. Understanding how to form superlatives is crucial for clear and effective communication. You can learn more about how adjectives are used in their superlative form here.

How Superlatives Are Formed

The formation of superlative adjectives generally depends on the length and ending of the adjective. There are two primary methods for creating these forms:

• Adding "-est": For most one-syllable adjectives and some two-syllable adjectives, particularly those ending in '-y', the superlative is formed by adding -est to the end of the word.

  • If the adjective ends in a 'y', change the 'y' to an 'i' before adding '-est' (e.g., pretty → prettiest).
  • If the adjective ends in a single vowel and consonant, the consonant is often doubled before adding '-est' (e.g., big → biggest).
  • Examples:
    • pretty → prettiest
    • happy → happiest
    • tall → tallest
    • old → oldest

• Using "most": For most adjectives with two or more syllables (excluding those ending in '-y'), the superlative form is created by placing the word most before the adjective.

  • Examples:
    • beautiful → most beautiful
    • intelligent → most intelligent
    • expensive → most expensive

• Irregular Superlatives: Some common adjectives have irregular superlative forms that do not follow the standard rules. These must be memorized.

  • Examples:
    • good → best
    • bad → worst
    • far → farthest or furthest

Examples of Superlative Forms

The table below illustrates the common forms of adjectives, including their comparative and superlative degrees:

Using the correct superlative form, such as "prettiest," ensures your descriptions are accurate and impactful, conveying the highest degree of a quality.