Some adverbs are also compared; as,
| Positive | Comparative | Superlative |
| well | better | best |
| quickly | more quickly | most quickly |
Some adjectives and adverbs cannot be compared because the positive degree in itself expresses a complete or absolute meaning; as,
| absolute,-ly | eternal | perfect | sufficient |
| circular | extreme | perpendicular | supreme |
| continual | faultless | perpetual | unanimous |
| dead | full | right | unique |
| decisive | impossible | round | universal |
| empty | incurable | square | white |
Compare those of the following adjectives that may be compared. Explain why some do not admit of comparison.
| great | spotless | expensive | wise |
| tall | dear | parallel | high |
| desirable | east | old | new |
| honorable | early | exclusive | blank |
Exercise 94
In the following exercise, select the correct one of the two italicized forms. Remember that the comparative degree is used in comparing two objects, the superlative in comparing three or more.
1. I had three pens. I have lost the better—best one.
2. I have two clerks. John is the older—oldest.