Learn how to use the comparative “better” and superlative “best” 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 “bests”?

The comparative form of “bests” is “better”.

Example

He is better at playing the piano than his sister.

Example

I feel better today than I did yesterday.

What is the superlative form of “bests”?

The superlative form of “bests” is “best”.

Example

Among all the students, she is the best in math.

Example

This restaurant is known for having the best pizza in town.

Why is this expression not used with most, more?

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

Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?

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

Expressions with similar meanings to “better”

Used to describe something that is of higher quality or more advanced

Example

The superior craftsmanship of the handmade furniture is evident.

Used to indicate that something has become better or has made progress

Example

Her health has improved since she started exercising regularly.

A slightly formal way of expressing increased quality or superiority

Example

The more excellent option would be to choose the larger and more powerful model.

Expressions with similar meanings to “best”

Similar to best, this emphasizes being at the highest level or ranking

Example

He is considered one of the top performers in his field.

Used to describe something of the highest quality or most superior

Example

The museum houses some of the finest works of art in the world.

A slightly formal way of expressing the highest level of quality or superiority

Example

The most excellent candidate was chosen for the job.

Using than with comparative “better”

When using the comparative form better to compare two things, you would use than to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "She is better at singing than her friend." Here, than is used to show that the skill level of 'her' singing is higher than the skill level of her friend's singing.

How can I use this expression in context?

“better” and “best” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.
  • 1Skills and Abilities

    He is better at basketball than his brother.

    He is better at basketball than his brother.

  • 2Products and Services

    This brand offers the best customer service in the industry.

    This brand offers the best customer service in the industry.

  • 3Achievements

    Winning the championship was his best accomplishment.

    Winning the championship was his best accomplishment.

  • 4Decisions and Choices

    Choosing the healthier option is always the better choice.

    Choosing the healthier option is always the better choice.

  • 5Opinions and Preferences

    In my opinion, this is the best movie of the year.

    In my opinion, this is the best movie of the year.

Related idioms and phrases

The cream of the crop

The best of a group or category.

Example

These students are the cream of the crop in terms of academic performance.

Second to none

The best or highest quality, with no equal.

Example

Their customer service is second to none in the industry.

A cut above the rest

Superior or better than others.

Example

Her artwork is a cut above the rest in terms of creativity and skill.

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