2.121 qualifying structures

You can use a superlative on its own if it is clear what is being compared. For example, if you say 'The sergeant was the tallest', you are referring to a group of soldiers which has already been identified.

If you need to refer to the point of the comparison, you use a qualifying phrase or clause which consists of

* a prepositional phrase normally beginning with 'in' or 'of'

• Henry was the biggest of them.
• The third requirement is the most important of all.
• These cakes are probably the best in the world.

Note that if the superlative is a modifier in front of a noun, the prepositional phrase comes after the noun.

• ...the best bargain for his money.
• I'm in the worst business in the world.

* a relative clause

• The best I'm likely to get.
• The visiting room was the worst I had seen.

Note that if the superlative is a modifier in front of a noun, the relative clause comes after the noun.

• ... the most dangerous man in the country.
• He and Nell had the most expensive dinner of their lives.
• That's the most convincing answer that you've given me.