What are Trappen van Vergelijking?

In Dutch, we talk about Trappen van Vergelijking when we compare adjectives. This means we have different forms of an adjective to show different levels of comparison.

The Three Degrees

  • Positive: This is the normal form. (Example: groot – big)
  • Comparative: This form is used to compare two things. (Example: groter – bigger)
  • Superlative: This form is used to compare more than two things, or to show the highest degree. (Example: grootst – biggest)

Examples

Degree Dutch Example English Translation
Positive Dit huis is groot. This house is big.
Comparative Dit huis is groter dan dat huis. This house is bigger than that house.
Superlative Dit huis is het grootst van alle huizen. This house is the biggest of all houses.

How to Use Them?

Just remember:

  • Use the positive form for one thing.
  • Use the comparative for comparing two things.
  • Use the superlative for the highest degree among three or more things.

Keep practicing and soon you will master these forms!