How to Use Comparative and Superlative Forms of Adjectives in Slovak

Understanding Adjectives in Slovak

In Slovak, adjectives describe qualities of nouns, similar to English. However, forming comparative and superlative forms involves specific suffixes and sometimes irregular forms. This article will guide English speakers through these forms to help you express comparisons effectively.

Forming the Comparative in Slovak

The comparative form in Slovak is typically created by adding the suffix -ejší or -ší to the adjective stem. The choice depends on the adjective's ending and phonetic rules.

For example, the adjective rýchly (fast) becomes rýchlejší (faster) in the comparative form.

Here are some common patterns:

• Adjectives ending in -ý: replace with -ejší (e.g., krásny → krajší)
• Adjectives ending in -k or -g: add -ší (e.g., hlboký → hlbší)
• Short adjectives often add -ší (e.g., mladý → mladší)

Forming the Superlative in Slovak

The superlative is formed by adding the prefix naj- to the comparative form of the adjective.

For example, rýchly (fast) becomes najrýchlejší (fastest). This pattern is consistent across most adjectives.

Examples:

• veľký (big) → väčší (bigger) → najväčší (biggest)
• dobrý (good) → lepší (better) → najlepší (best)

Irregular Comparative and Superlative Forms

Some Slovak adjectives have irregular comparative and superlative forms that do not follow the standard suffix rules. These must be memorized.

• dobrý (good) → lepší (better) → najlepší (best)
• zlý (bad) → horší (worse) → najhorší (worst)
• veľký (big) → väčší (bigger) → najväčší (biggest)

Using Comparative and Superlative Adjectives in Sentences

Comparative adjectives are often used with the word ako (than) to compare two things.

Superlative adjectives are used to express the highest degree of a quality, often with the definite article or in a context that makes it clear.

Summary of Key Points

• Comparative adjectives usually end with -ejší or -ší.
• Superlative adjectives are formed by adding naj- to the comparative form.
• Some adjectives have irregular comparative and superlative forms.
• Use ako to compare two things with comparatives.
• Superlatives express the highest degree of a quality in a group.