Short Superlatives (-est) Exercises

Short superlatives use the + adjective + -est to choose one item from a group. This pattern is common with one-syllable adjectives: tall → the tallest, cold → the coldest, fast → the fastest, old → the oldest. The exercise focuses on regular short adjectives, so the main task is to remember both parts of the form: the before the adjective and -est at the end. Use this structure when you compare one thing with a wider group, not just with one other thing.

Many short adjectives simply add -est, but spelling still matters. If the adjective ends in -e, add -st rather than -est: large → the largest. Some one-syllable adjectives ending in consonant + short vowel + consonant double the final consonant: big → the biggest, hot → the hottest. This route mainly builds speed with common forms such as the longest, the smallest, the loudest, and the strongest. Do not use "most" with these regular short adjectives in standard learner English: write "the fastest", not "the most fast".