Understanding Comparative and Superlative Forms in Italian

What are Comparative Forms in Italian?

Comparative forms in Italian are used to compare two things. Just like in English, you have different rules for forming them, depending on whether you're dealing with 'more' and 'less' or comparing equality.

Comparatives of Superiority and Inferiority

In Italian, to express that something is 'more' or 'less' than something else, you use più (more) or meno (less) before the adjective or adverb. Then, di or che are used to link the two terms being compared.

When to Use 'di' vs. 'che'

The choice between di and che depends on the elements being compared. Use di when comparing two nouns, pronouns, or infinitives. Use che when comparing adjectives, verbs, or prepositions.

Understanding Superlative Forms

Superlatives in Italian express the highest or lowest degree of a quality within a group or context. They are formed by using il/la più or il/la meno before the adjective.

Absolute Superlatives

Absolute superlatives intensify the adjective or adverb without comparing it to anything else. They are often formed by adding the suffix -issimo/-issima/-issimi/-issime to the adjective's base.