Italian Grammar: Relative Superlatives

Question 1

For what is the superlativo relativo used?

Answer 1

Superlativo relativo is used to compare things or people with others in a category. It is equivalent to the English the most… or the least…

Question 2

How is the superlativo relativo formed?

Answer 2

Start with the definite article (il/la or i/le) before più or meno plus the comparative adjective plus di plus the group or category of the comparison.

il/la , i/le + più/meno + adj (+ di + category)
(Note: + di + category may often be implied, not stated).

Question 3

What is the irregular relative superlative form of the adjective il più buono / la più buona?

Answer 3

il / la migliore

Question 4

What is the irregular relative superlative form of the adjective il più cattivo / la più cattiva?

Answer 4

il / la peggiore

Question 5

What is the irregular relative superlative form of the adjective il più grande / la più grande

Answer 5

il / la maggiore

Question 6

What is the irregular relative superlative form of the adjective il più piccolo / la più piccola

Answer 6

il / la minore

Question 7

What does the superlativo assoluto express?

Answer 7

It is the english equivalent of very or extremely + adjective. It is formed by adding molto in front of the adjective or by adding the suffix -ssimo / a/i/e to the masculine plural form of the adjective.

Question 8

In addition to regular form of buono in absolute superlative form (buonissimo = very good), what is it’s irregular form?

Answer 8

ottimo (very good)

Question 9

In addition to the regular form of cattivo in absolute superlative form (cattivissimo = very bad), what is it’s irregular form?

Answer 9

pessimo (very bad)