Basic Details
Word: Superlative
Part of Speech: Adjective & Noun
Meaning: The highest degree of comparison, usually to describe something that is the best or the greatest in a category.
Synonyms: Best, supreme, utmost
Antonyms: Least, lowest, inferior
Idioms and Phrases
- In a league of its own: Describing something that is so good that it is better than anything else. Example: "This chocolate cake is in a league of its own I've never tasted anything better!"
- The cream rises to the top: The best or most talented people eventually succeed. Example: "Despite all the competition, she won the award because the cream always rises to the top."
Usage Examples
Example 1: Usain Bolt is often considered the superlative athlete of all time for his achievements in sprinting.
Example 2: This book was voted the superlative novel of the year by the literary critics.
Example 3: When it comes to pizza, that restaurant offers the superlative toppings and flavours.
Fun Fact
The word "superlative" comes from the Latin word "superlativus," meaning "to carry over" or "beyond." It indicates something that goes beyond the usual level.
Famous Quote
"Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful." Albert Schweitzer
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "superlative" mean?
a) The worst thing
b) The highest degree of comparison
c) A simple description
d) A comparison of two items
Answer: b) The highest degree of comparison
2. Which of these words is a synonym for "superlative"?
a) Average
b) Best
c) Lowest
d) Poor
Answer: b) Best
3. What is an antonym of "superlative"?
a) Greatest
b) Superior
c) Least
d) Exceptional
Answer: c) Least
4. Which sentence uses "superlative" correctly?
a) She is the superlative chef, winning the competition.
b) He is superlative at playing the guitar.
c) The superlative flower is blooming in spring.
d) This ice cream is the superlative flavour of all.
Answer: d) This ice cream is the superlative flavour of all.
5. Which idiom relates to the meaning of "superlative"?
a) In a league of its own
b) A drop in the ocean
c) A diamond in the rough
d) All bark and no bite
Answer: a) In a league of its own
