superlatif
/sy.pɛʁ.la.tif/
The English word superlative translates to superlatif in French.
In French, superlatif is a masculine noun used to refer to the grammatical superlative degree. It is a cognate of the English adjective 'superlative'.
Meaning: exceptionally good (adj)
How does it change in a sentence?
The word superlatif is a masculine noun. Note that when expressing the superlative of the adjective bon, the specific form le meilleur is used.
How do you pronounce it?
/sy.pɛʁ.la.tif/
Did you know?
- While English uses the word 'superlative' to mean 'exceptional', in French, using superlatif in conversation might sound overly technical, as it is primarily a term used by linguists and grammarians.
- The word superlatif traces its roots back to the Latin verb superfero, which literally means 'to carry over' or 'to bear above'.
- French speakers often use the prefix super- as a colloquial intensifier, such as in super sympa, to express a superlative feeling without using formal grammar.
Examples in context
- C'est la plus belle fleur du jardin.It is the most beautiful flower in the garden.
- Elle a le plus grand château de la région.She has the biggest castle in the region.
- Ils ont les meilleurs résultats de l'école.They have the best results in the school.
- C'est super belle cette robe!This dress is super beautiful!
- On a passé une trop bonne soirée.We had such a great evening!
- Il est super sympa.He is super nice.
Example conversation
Lucas and Léa are discussing a movie they just watched.
- LucasLe jeu des acteurs était superlatif.The acting was exceptionally good.
- LéaJe suis d'accord, c'était impressionnant.I agree, it was impressive.
- LucasLe scénario était aussi très solide.The script was also very solid.
- LéaC'est vraiment le meilleur film de l'année.It is truly the best movie of the year.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry superlatif, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries superlatif, CC BY-SA 4.0.
