In Grammar 3-1 and 3-2 we used comparative and superlative adjectives to compare things to each other. Let’s look at how we use certain comparative and superlative structures with the adverb 'ever' for emphasis.
Comparatives with 'Ever'
We can show emphasis with a comparative adjective and than ever.
This year’s Carnival is bigger than ever.
This structure has a similar meaning to a superlative adjective, but it shows that the noun has changed to reach its present, extreme state. When we use this structure, we are always comparing the noun's present state to the same noun's past states. Note that we aren't necessarily being factual when we say this; rather, we're emphasizing how extreme we feel the situation has gotten.
- The tickets are more expensive than ever. = The tickets have reached a very expensive price (they were cheaper before).
- Their party was louder than ever. = This party was extremely loud (their parties were quieter before).
- These exercises are easier than ever. = These exercises felt very easy (the exercises were more difficult before).
Superlatives with 'Ever'
We can show emphasis by using superlative adjectives and ever. Generally, we use this structure to show that our opinion is extremely strong. Depending on the structure of the sentence, ever is placed either after the noun or directly after the superlative adjective.
This is the best pizza ever!
This pizza is the best ever!
In addition to emphasizing opinions, this structure can also be used to state facts.
- Last summer was the hottest ever. → (fact—you heard this on the news)
- This is the fastest roller coaster ever. → (fact—you read this on a sign)
- The performance was his best ever. → (strong opinion)
- This party is the worst ever. → (strong opinion)