Why is “most unique” a Problem?

The word “unique” means “one of a kind” or “unlike anything else.” It’s an absolute adjective, which means it describes something in a definitive way without degrees or levels. Something is either unique or it isn’t—you can’t have degrees of uniqueness.

For example:

• Correct: “This painting is unique.” (It is one of a kind.)
• Problematic: “This painting is the most unique.” (Implies degrees of uniqueness, which doesn’t align with its absolute meaning.)

Analogy Time 🎨

Think of “unique” as a light switch—it’s either on (unique) or off (not unique). You can’t turn the light more on or less on. Similarly, something can’t be more unique or most unique.

What About Other Absolute Adjectives?

There are several other absolute adjectives that behave like “unique.” Some examples include:

• Perfect: Something cannot be more perfect. It is either perfect or not.
• Infinite: If something is infinite, it can’t be more infinite.
• Dead: You can’t be very dead or most dead.

These words describe absolute states, making modifiers like most or very unnecessary and illogical.

But Do People Still Use “Most Unique”?

Yes, you might hear or read “most unique” in casual speech or writing. Some people use it to emphasize their point or because they aren’t thinking about the precise definition of unique. While it’s not technically correct, it’s not uncommon in informal contexts.

Practice Exercises

Let’s reinforce your understanding with a quick practice!

Correct or Incorrect?

1. This sculpture is the most unique in the museum.
2. Her voice is unique among all the singers.
3. The invention was described as very unique by the critics.
4. Each snowflake is unique.

Answers:

1. Incorrect (You don’t need most here.)
2. Correct (Describes an absolute quality.)
3. Incorrect (You don’t need very with unique.)
4. Correct (Shows absolute uniqueness.)