Good, Better, Best: Elevate Your English Vocabulary

Good, Better, Best: Elevate Your English Vocabulary
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Understanding Comparative Degrees

The comparative degree helps compare two items, people, or concepts. While most English adjectives add "-er" or use "more," "good" is an exception. Its irregular comparative form is "better." This essential word is key to clear and precise comparisons. Let's explore how to use "better" effectively. ✨

Effective Speaking Strategies for the Duolingo English Test

Using "Better" in Context

"Better" is a versatile word used to compare quality, performance, preference, and improvement. When using it, remember to include "than" to clarify the comparison. Here are practical applications: 👇

  • "This book is good, but that book is better."
  • "I feel better today than I did yesterday."
  • "Her cooking is better than his."

To deepen your understanding, let's explore "better" in various contexts:

  1. Health & Well-being: Improve well-being or progress. - "After taking the medicine, I'm feeling better." - "Regular exercise is known to make people feel better mentally and physically."

  2. Performance & Skills: Indicate superior quality or ability. - "She plays the piano better than her brother." - "Practice will help you get better at speaking English."

  3. Preference & Choices: Express a preferred option, advice, or recommendation. - "I like vanilla, but I think chocolate is better." - "For long journeys, flying is better than driving." - "It is usually better to leave early to avoid traffic."

Free English Practice

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When using "better," be mindful of these common errors:

  • No "Gooder" or "More Better": Always use "better" as it is already the comparative form of "good." Phrases like "gooder" or "more better" are incorrect. 🚫
    Incorrect: "This cake is more better than that one."
    Correct: "This cake is better than that one."
  • "Good" vs. "Well": Remember "good" is an adjective, and "well" is an adverb. Both use "better" as their comparative form.
    Incorrect: "She plays the piano good."
    Correct: "She plays the piano well."
    Comparative: "She plays the piano better than before."
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  • Ensure Clear Context: Always ensure the comparison is clear and logical. "Better" needs a "than" clause or clear implied comparison.
    Incorrect: "This book is better."
    Correct: "This book is better than the one I read last week."
Using Your Smartphone as a Second Camera for the Duolingo English Test

Mastering "better" significantly enhances your English communication. Its correct use adds clarity and precision to comparisons, allowing you to effectively articulate differences and preferences in both spoken and written English. Practice using it to boost your fluency! 🚀

DET Study: Elevate Your Exam Readiness

DET Study provides an extensive suite of over 15,000 practice questions, focusing on leveraging adjectives and adverbs to fortify your grammatical skills. Regular practice with these targeted materials ensures that you approach the Duolingo English Test with enhanced confidence and precision, ready to achieve your desired scores.

🎯 Need more practice? Check out DETStudy.com for expert resources, 15,000+ practice questions, and AI-powered writing and speaking feedback.

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