German grammar: Superlativ

What this grammar point covers

The 'Superlativ' in German is used to show that something has the highest degree of a quality, like 'the fastest', 'the biggest', or 'the most beautiful'.

When to use it

Use the Superlativ when you want to say that someone or something is the most (or least) in a group, for example, the tallest person, the most expensive car, or the best student.

Key forms

• Add '-ste(n)' to the adjective: schnell → schnellsten
• With definite article: der/die/das + adjective + -ste(n): der schnellste
• For some adjectives, use 'am' + adjective + -sten: am schönsten

Examples

Tips

• Don’t forget the correct ending for the adjective, depending on the article and case.
• For adjectives ending in -d, -t, -s, -ß, -sch, -x, or -z, add an extra 'e': am ältesten, am schönsten.
• Use 'am' + adjective + -sten for adverbs or when there is no noun.

Exceptions and edge cases

• Some adjectives are irregular: gut → am besten, hoch → am höchsten, viel → am meisten.