Language/Bosnian/Grammar/Comparatives-and-Superlatives

◀️ Adjective Agreement — Previous Lesson

Next Lesson — Family Members ▶️

Bosnian → Grammar → 0 to A1 Course → Adjectives and Adverbs → Comparatives and Superlatives

Introduction

In this lesson, we will explore the topic of comparatives and superlatives in Bosnian grammar. Understanding how to form comparative and superlative adjectives is essential for describing differences and extremes in the Bosnian language. Whether you want to compare two objects or express the highest or lowest degree of a quality, this lesson will provide you with the necessary knowledge and practice to do so effectively.

We will begin by discussing the formation of comparatives and superlatives, including the rules and patterns involved. Then, we will explore various examples to illustrate the usage of these forms in different contexts. Additionally, we will delve into any regional variations or historical reasons for differences in the usage of comparatives and superlatives in Bosnian.

To ensure a comprehensive understanding of the topic, we will provide exercises and practice scenarios where you can apply what you have learned. These exercises will allow you to practice forming comparatives and superlatives in a variety of contexts, solidifying your knowledge and skills in this area.

By the end of this lesson, you will be able to confidently form comparatives and superlatives in Bosnian, enabling you to make comparisons and describe extremes accurately and fluently. Let's dive in!

Formation of Comparatives and Superlatives

In Bosnian, comparatives and superlatives are formed by adding suffixes to the base form of an adjective. The specific suffix used depends on the gender and number of the noun being described. Let's explore the different formations for comparatives and superlatives in Bosnian.

Comparative Adjectives

To form the comparative degree of an adjective, we generally add the suffix "-iji" to the base form of the adjective. However, the suffix undergoes certain changes depending on the gender and number of the noun it describes. Let's take a look at some examples:

Bosnian	Pronunciation	English
visok	/vɪsok/	tall
viši	/vɪʃi/	taller
najviši	/naɪvɪʃi/	tallest

In the example above, we see the formation of the comparative degree of the adjective "visok" (tall). By adding the suffix "-iji" to the base form "visok," we get "viši" (taller). To form the superlative degree, we add the prefix "naj-" to the comparative form, resulting in "najviši" (tallest).

It's important to note that the suffix "-iji" changes to "-i" when used with feminine singular adjectives. Let's see an example:

Bosnian	Pronunciation	English
lijepa	/lɪjɛpa/	beautiful
ljepša	/ljɛpʃa/	more beautiful
najljepša	/naɪljɛpʃa/	most beautiful

In this example, the feminine singular adjective "lijepa" (beautiful) becomes "ljepša" (more beautiful) in the comparative degree. The superlative degree is then formed by adding the prefix "naj-" to the comparative form, resulting in "najljepša" (most beautiful).

Superlative Adjectives

To form the superlative degree of an adjective, we add the prefix "naj-" to the base form of the adjective. This prefix remains the same regardless of the gender or number of the noun being described. Let's look at some examples:

Bosnian	Pronunciation	English
pametan	/pamɛtan/	smart
najpametniji	/naɪpamɛtniʃi/	smartest
lijep	/ljɛp/	beautiful
najljepši	/naɪljɛpʃi/	most beautiful

In the first example, the base form "pametan" (smart) becomes "najpametniji" (smartest) when we add the prefix "naj-". Similarly, the base form "lijep" (beautiful) becomes "najljepši" (most beautiful) with the addition of the prefix "naj-".

These examples demonstrate the formation of superlative adjectives in Bosnian. By understanding the rules and patterns for forming comparatives and superlatives, you will be able to accurately describe differences and extremes in your conversations and writing.

Cultural Insights

In Bosnian culture, the usage of comparatives and superlatives can vary slightly depending on the region or historical influences. It's interesting to note that regional dialects may have their own unique ways of forming comparatives and superlatives, often influenced by local customs and linguistic traditions.

For example, in some regions of Bosnia, you may hear the use of the suffix "-ji" instead of "-iji" for forming comparatives. This variation adds a distinct flavor to the language and reflects the diversity within the Bosnian-speaking community. Embracing these regional variations can enrich your understanding and appreciation of the Bosnian language and culture.

Historically, Bosnian has been influenced by various neighboring languages and cultures, including Turkish, Arabic, and Slavic languages. These influences can be observed in the vocabulary and grammar of the language. When it comes to comparatives and superlatives, you may come across certain words or expressions that have roots in these historical influences.

For instance, the use of the prefix "naj-" to form superlative adjectives is reminiscent of the Turkish language, which has also influenced Bosnian vocabulary and grammar. This historical connection adds depth and richness to the Bosnian language, making it an intriguing subject of study for language enthusiasts.

Exercises

Now it's time to put your knowledge of comparatives and superlatives into practice! Complete the following exercises to reinforce your understanding of the topic.

Exercise 1: Forming Comparatives For each adjective given, form the comparative degree using the appropriate suffix or prefix.

• Example: malen (small) → manji (smaller)

1. brz (fast) 2. visok (tall) 3. dobar (good) 4. lijep (beautiful) 5. stari (old)

Exercise 2: Forming Superlatives For each adjective given, form the superlative degree using the appropriate suffix or prefix.

• Example: visok (tall) → najviši (tallest)

1. pametan (smart) 2. lijep (beautiful) 3. dobar (good) 4. mlad (young) 5. jak (strong)

Exercise 3: Fill in the Blanks Complete the sentences with the appropriate comparative or superlative form of the adjective in parentheses.

• Example: Ova knjiga je ________ od one. (dobar) → Ova knjiga je bolja od one. (This book is better than that one.)

1. Ona kuća je ________ od ove. (velik) 2. To je ________ film koji sam ikada gledao. (zabavan) 3. Moj pas je ________ od svih. (ljubazan) 4. Ona je ________ osoba koju poznajem. (pametan) 5. Ovo je ________ restoran u gradu. (popularan)

Solutions

Exercise 1: Forming Comparatives 1. brži (faster) 2. viši (taller) 3. bolji (better) 4. ljepši (more beautiful) 5. stariji (older)

Exercise 2: Forming Superlatives 1. najpametniji (smartest) 2. najljepši (most beautiful) 3. najbolji (best) 4. najmlađi (youngest) 5. najjači (strongest)

Exercise 3: Fill in the Blanks 1. veća (bigger) 2. najzabavniji (most entertaining) 3. najljubaznija (kindest) 4. najpametnija (smartest) 5. najpopularniji (most popular)

Make sure to review your answers and compare them with the solutions provided. This will help you identify any areas that need further practice or clarification.

Conclusion

Congratulations on completing this lesson on comparatives and superlatives in Bosnian grammar! You have learned how to form comparative and superlative adjectives, allowing you to make comparisons and describe extremes in the Bosnian language. By practicing the exercises provided, you have further solidified your understanding and application of this topic.

Continue to explore and expand your knowledge of Bosnian grammar, vocabulary, and cultural insights. The more you immerse yourself in the language, the more confident and proficient you will become. Keep up the great work, and soon you will be on your way to achieving fluency in Bosnian!

Table of Contents - Bosnian Course - 0 to A1

• Course Presentation

  ---

Introduction to Bosnian Alphabet

• Bosnian Alphabet and Pronunciation
• Special Characters and Sounds

  ---

Basic Bosnian Sentence Structure

• Subject-Verb-Object
• Questions and Negations

  ---

Greetings and Introductions

• Common Greetings
• Introducing Yourself

  ---

Nouns and Pronouns

• Noun Gender and Plurals
• Personal Pronouns

  ---

Verbs and Tenses

• Present Tense
• Past Tense

  ---

Numbers and Time

• Numbers 1-100
• Telling Time

  ---

Food and Drink

• Common Foods
• Ordering at a Restaurant

  ---

Travel and Transportation

• Modes of Transportation
• Asking for Directions

  ---

Bosnian Customs and Traditions

• Holidays and Celebrations
• Traditional Music and Dance

  ---

Adjectives and Adverbs

• Adjective Agreement
• Comparatives and Superlatives

  ---

Family and Relationships

• Family Members
• Describing Relationships

  ---

Hobbies and Leisure Activities

• Common Hobbies
• Sports and Fitness

  ---

Bosnian Literature and Cinema

• Famous Writers and Works
• Bosnian Cinema

Other Lessons

• Special Characters and Sounds
• Pronouns
• Noun Gender and Plurals
• Adjectives
• Verbs and Conjugation
• How to Use Be
• Adjectives and Adverbs
• Questions and Negations
• Basic Sentence Structure
• Future Tense

◀️ Adjective Agreement — Previous Lesson

Next Lesson — Family Members ▶️