How to Use Comparative and Superlative Adjectives in Greek

Understanding Comparative and Superlative Adjectives in Greek

In Greek, adjectives can express different degrees of comparison, just like in English. The comparative degree is used to compare two things, while the superlative degree expresses the highest or lowest degree among three or more things. Learning how to form and use these degrees correctly is essential for effective communication in Greek.

Forming the Comparative Degree in Greek

The comparative degree in Greek is typically formed by adding the suffix -τερος (masculine), -τερη (feminine), or -τερο (neuter) to the adjective stem. This is similar to adding "-er" in English (e.g., "taller"). For example:

Note that some adjectives have irregular comparative forms, which you will need to memorize.

Forming the Superlative Degree in Greek

The superlative degree is formed by adding the definite article before the comparative form of the adjective. This construction corresponds to "the most" or "the -est" in English. For example:

The article agrees in gender, number, and case with the noun it modifies.

Irregular Comparative and Superlative Adjectives

Some Greek adjectives have irregular comparative and superlative forms. Here are a few common examples:

Using Comparative and Superlative Adjectives in Sentences

Here are some example sentences to illustrate the use of comparative and superlative adjectives in Greek:

• Αυτό το σπίτι είναι μεγαλύτερο από το δικό σου. (This house is bigger than yours.)
• Η Μαρία είναι η πιο έξυπνη μαθήτρια στην τάξη. (Maria is the smartest student in the class.)
• Ο καιρός σήμερα είναι χειρότερος από χθες. (The weather today is worse than yesterday.)

Summary of Key Points

1. Comparative adjectives in Greek usually end with -τερος, -τερη, -τερο.
2. Superlative adjectives are formed by adding the definite article before the comparative form.
3. Adjectives agree in gender, number, and case with the nouns they modify.
4. Some adjectives have irregular comparative and superlative forms that must be memorized.