Adverbs describe how, when, where, or to what extent something happens, and the superlative adverb expresses the highest degree of that quality. This guide focuses on how to form and use superlative adverbs in German.
Formation
Adverbs in German are often identical in form to adjectives, but importantly adverbs do not take endings when they modify verbs, and the superlative adverb is formed with am + adjective + -sten. This am ... -sten construction is the standard way to form the adverbial superlative for manner, time, and place.
Adjective to Adverb
Adjectives used adverbially appear in their base form without endings when modifying a verb, so you can test by placing the word after the verb.
She drives quickly on the highway.
Adverbial Superlative
To express that something is done in the highest degree or "most" way, use am + adjective + -sten, which functions as an adverb modifying the verb.
Comparative
The comparative adverb is formed by using the adjective in its comparative form and is used to show a greater degree relative to something else; adverbs remain in their base form when modifying verbs.
Irregulars
Some common adjectives have irregular comparative and superlative forms that you should learn, as they appear frequently in both speech and writing.
schnell / schnell(er) / am schnellsten
gut / besser / am besten
viel / mehr / am meisten
Usages
Adverbial superlatives are often used with am + adjective + -sten when describing manner, time, or place, and when emphasizing the highest degree of an action.
Summary
The key principle is to use am + adjective + -sten for the adverbial superlative, keep adverbs in their base form when modifying verbs, and learn a few irregular forms for common adjectives.
Last updated: Fri Oct 24, 2025