Learn how to use the comparative “older” and superlative “oldest” with example sentences and differences.

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Notes from a Native English Speaker

Comparative adjectives help us to describe how good or bad something is when compared to something else. For example, something is taller than something else. Superlative adjectives help us to describe something as having the most or least of a particular characteristic within a group. This makes it easier and more accurate to talk about and compare things.

What is the comparative form of “aged”?

The comparative form of “aged” is “older”.

Example

My sister is older than me.

Example

The antique shop sells older furniture.

What is the superlative form of “aged”?

The superlative form of “aged” is “oldest”.

Example

Among all my siblings, I am the oldest.

Example

The ancient ruins are considered the oldest in the region.

Why is this expression not used with most, more?

'Most' and 'more' are generally not used with aged, older, and oldest. They’re considered regular comparatives and superlatives. The forms 'more aged' and 'most aged' are not commonly used because they sound awkward. Instead, older and oldest are the correct and preferred forms to use.

Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?

Aged does not have an irregular comparative or superlative form. It follows the standard pattern for forming comparatives and superlatives. So, to summarize: Comparative: AgedOlder Superlative: AgedOldest

Expressions with similar meanings to “older”

Used to describe someone who is older in terms of age or position

Example

My elder brother is always there to give me advice.

A slightly formal way of expressing increased age

Example

The more aged members of the community have a wealth of knowledge and experience.

Expressions with similar meanings to “oldest”

Similar to oldest, this emphasizes being the oldest in terms of age or position

Example

The eldest sibling is often seen as a role model for the younger ones.

A slightly formal way of expressing the highest level of age

Example

The most aged tree in the forest is over 500 years old.

Using than with comparative “older”

When using the comparative form older to compare two things, you would use than to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "She is older than her friend." Here, than is used to show that the age of 'she' is greater than the age of her friend.

How can I use this expression in context?

“older” and “oldest” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.
  • 1Family

    My grandparents are older than my parents.

    My grandparents are older than my parents.

  • 2Antiques

    The oldest item in the collection dates back to the 18th century.

    The oldest item in the collection dates back to the 18th century.

  • 3Historical Events

    The oldest recorded civilization is believed to be the Sumerians.

    The oldest recorded civilization is believed to be the Sumerians.

  • 4Rankings

    He is the oldest member of the team.

    He is the oldest member of the team.

  • 5Buildings

    The older buildings in the city have a unique architectural style.

    The older buildings in the city have a unique architectural style.

Related idioms and phrases

Age is just a number

The idea that age should not limit or define a person's abilities or potential.

Example

Don't let your age hold you back. Remember, age is just a number.

Old as the hills

Describing something or someone as very old.

Example

That house has been standing there as old as the hills.

Young at heart

To have a youthful or lively spirit, regardless of one's actual age.

Example

Even though she's in her 70s, she's still young at heart and loves to dance.

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