Write the label P for positive, C for comparative, or S for superlative to describe the degree of comparison of the italicized modifier
1. Starfish have POWERFUL suckers on their arms, which they use to open shellfish.
2. Flying fish jump HIGH out of the water to escape their enemies.
3. The ocean sunfish lays the GREATEST number of eggs of any fish.
1. P (positive)
2. C (comparative)
3. S (superlative)
1. C (comparative)
2. S (superlative)
3. S (superlative)
To determine the degree of comparison of the italicized modifiers in each sentence, we need to understand the different degrees of comparison.
1. "Powerful" describes the quality of the suckers on starfish's arms. Since it is comparing the strength of the suckers to other potential levels of strength, it is in the comparative degree. Therefore, the answer is C for "comparative."
2. "High" describes the height of the jump made by flying fish. This sentence is not making any comparison to other levels of height, so it is in the positive degree. Therefore, the answer is P for "positive."
3. "Greatest" describes the number of eggs laid by the ocean sunfish when compared to other fish. It is making a comparison and indicating the highest level of quantity, so it is in the superlative degree. Therefore, the answer is S for "superlative."
So, the correct labels for the degree of comparison in each sentence are as follows:
1. C (comparative)
2. P (positive)
3. S (superlative)