grammar - "most" vs "the most", specifically as an adverb at the end of sentence


Which one of the following sentences is the most canonical?


I know most vs. the most has been explained a lot, but my doubts pertain specifically to which one to use at the end of a sentence.



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vs



Do you know accepting answers improves your reputation and lets other users know what solution helped you most?



EDIT: This question doesn't solve my doubts because it is not about using "most" and "the most" specifically as an adverb at the end of a sentence.



Answer



Most


We use the quantifier most to talk about quantities, amounts and degree. We can use it with a noun (as a determiner) or without a noun (as a pronoun). We can also use it with adjectives and adverbs to form the superlative.



The most is the superlative form of many, much.



We use the most to make the superlative forms of longer adjectives and the majority of adverbs:



  • They’re using the most advanced technology in the world. (+ adjective)

  • Scafell Pike is the most easily identifiable peak in the Lake District. (+ adverb)



The most with a noun.



We use the most with a noun to mean ‘more/less than all of the others’:



  • Ian earns the most money in our family.



The most with a verb.



We use the most with a verb as an adverb:



  • They all cried, but Claire cried the most.


(Cambridge dictionary)



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