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Anonymous Posted 18 years ago
Grammar

indefinite noun before a superative?

Hi,

I think I have seen a phrase like 'a most + adjective + noun' instead of 'the most + adjective + noun'. Is the first version possible? I think it is because I got that phrase from a published book, although an old book that is.

a most important book

the most important book
  

Top answer

a most important book = a very important book. There is no comparison between books involved. the most important book = the book that is more important than any of the other books.

— CalifJim

  • a most important book = a very important book.
  • There is no comparison between books involved.
  • the most important book = the book that is more important than any of the other books.
  • Comparison is involved.
  • CJ
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1 Answers
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a most important book = a very important book. There is no comparison between books involved.

the most important book = the book that is more important than any of the other books. Comparison is involved.

CJ
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