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

What is the comparative form of “aulder”?

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

Example

My sister is older than me.

Example

The antique shop sells older furniture.

What is the superlative form of “aulder”?

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

Example

Among all my siblings, I am the oldest.

Example

This is the oldest building in the city.

Why is this expression not used with most, more?

"Most" and "more" are not used with "old," "older," and "oldest." Instead, "older" and "oldest" are the appropriate comparatives and superlatives for "old." Using "most old" or "more old" would be grammatically incorrect.

Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?

"Old" has an irregular comparative and superlative form. It follows the pattern: - Comparative form: Old → Older - Superlative form: Old → Oldest

Expressions with similar meanings to “older”

elder

Used to describe someone who is older in age or seniority.

Example

My elder brother is a doctor.

more mature

Used to indicate that someone has reached a higher level of development or wisdom.

Example

As she grew older, she became more mature and responsible.

advanced in years

Used to describe someone who is elderly or has lived a long life.

Example

The advanced in years couple celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary.

Expressions with similar meanings to “oldest”

eldest

Used to describe the oldest sibling in a family.

Example

My eldest sister is a lawyer.

most ancient

Used to describe something that is extremely old or from a distant past.

Example

The ruins of the temple are the most ancient structures in the region.

longest-standing

Used to describe something that has existed for a long time without interruption.

Example

The longest-standing tradition in our family is celebrating Christmas together.

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: "My sister is older than me." Here, "than" is used to show that the age of "my sister" is higher than the age of "me."

How can I use this expression in context?

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

• 1. Age

  He is older than his classmates.

  He is older than his classmates.

• 2. Buildings

  This is the oldest church in town.

  This is the oldest church in town.

• 3. Traditions

  Our family has the longest-standing tradition of gathering for Thanksgiving.

  Our family has the longest-standing tradition of gathering for Thanksgiving.

• 4. Artifacts

  The museum displays the most ancient artifacts from different civilizations.

  The museum displays the most ancient artifacts from different civilizations.

Related idioms and phrases

Old as the hills

Extremely old or ancient.

Example

The castle is old as the hills and full of history.

Old habits die hard

It is difficult to change or get rid of long-established habits.

Example

Even though he wanted to quit smoking, old habits die hard and he found it challenging to give up.