Why hardest not harder?

[Bashar]

English Grammar Tests, Elementary Level

ESL/EFL Test #45 "Basic English Expressions", question 6

Tom works the ......... of anyone.

(a) hardest
(b) harder
(c) most hard
(d) more harder

English Grammar Tests, Elementary Level

ESL/EFL Test #45 "Basic English Expressions", answer 6

Tom works the hardest of anyone.

Correct answer: (a) hardest

Your answer was: incorrect
Tom works the harder of anyone.
_________________________

why hardest not harder

Bashar

[Conchita]

[Zellzacks]

Hi,

Why "The most hard of everyone" is wrong?

thank you

[Skrej]

Zellzacks,

We only use the comparative and superlative forms 'more' and 'most' on some (but not all) two syllable adjectives, and on all 3 and 4 syllable adjectives, since adding another syllable of '-er'/'-est' would be too difficult to pronounce.

Single syllable words typically just get '-er'/'-est' added.

There are of course exceptions, and don't forget the list of irregular adjectives. A quick internet search on 'English comparative and superlative forms' will give you a more complete explanation of the rules.
_________________
Plan to be spontaneous tomorrow.
***
Did you hear they arrested the Energizer Bunny on battery charges?
***