GRAMMAR
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to comparisons between two persons or things, while superlatives should be used when referring to more than two things: He is one of the most talented artists on the scene. He is the more talented of the two artists. This is the less desirable of the two possible outcomes.
In addition, there is a third category of adjective used to make comparisons of persons or things judged to be on a similar level with each other. These usually employ the formula as [adjective] as: This tree is as old as that one. His explanation is as good as yours.
Comparatives and superlatives are frequently employed in advertising slogans in order to proclaim the advantages of a particular product or service (a better solution, a fuller flavor, the simplest way). (For further information on spelling the comparative and superlative forms, see page 180.)
ABSOLUTE ADJECTIVES Many adjectives, such as complete, empty, or total, have no comparative or superlative senses and are generally incapable of being modified by such words as slightly, very, or quite. Note, however, that some absolute adjectives are capable of being modified by the addition of almost, nearly, or virtually: The venture was an almost total loss. The tiger is a nearly extinct species in this part of the world. This was a virtually unparalleled achievement.
In the remainder of cases modifiers are only rarely applied to absolute adjectives, usually either for effect or to emphasize an even closer approach to perfection than that already attained: His hopes are very much alive. A fuller account of the battle will never be written.
Use of Adjectives Care should be taken not to use adjectives too frequently, as they tend to slow down a reader and may bury the essential facts of a sentence in too much detail. They should also be avoided where they are tautological and add nothing to the meaning of a sentence. Some adjectives are more precise in meaning than others: The adjective nice should be treated with particular caution because it tends to be greatly overused (nice food, a nice house, a nice person), despite the fact that it conveys relatively little in terms of hard information. It is usually possible to find an alternative for such adjectives with a little effort (tasty food, an attractive house, a pleasant person). It is generally good policy to avoid using several adjectives together, except where they are used to convey precise factual information (a tall,