Learn how to use the comparative “bigger” and superlative “biggest” with example sentences and differences.

What is the comparative form of “big”?

The comparative form of “big” is “bigger”.

Example

The elephant is bigger than the lion.

Example

This house is bigger than the one next door.

What is the superlative form of “big”?

The superlative form of “big” is “biggest”.

Example

Among all the fruits, the watermelon is the biggest.

Example

This is the biggest building in the city.

Why is this expression not used with most, more?

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

Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?

Big does not have an irregular comparative or superlative form. It follows the standard pattern for forming comparatives and superlatives. So, to summarize: Comparative: Big → Bigger Superlative: Big → Biggest

Expressions with similar meanings to “bigger”

larger

Used to describe something that has more physical size or dimensions

Example

The larger suitcase can hold more clothes.

greater

Used to indicate something that has a higher degree or intensity

Example

She has a greater understanding of the subject than her classmates.

more spacious

A slightly formal way of expressing increased space or room

Example

The more spacious apartment allows for better furniture arrangement.

Expressions with similar meanings to “biggest”

largest

Similar to biggest, this emphasizes physical size or dimensions

Example

The blue whale is the largest animal on Earth.

greatest

Used to describe the highest level of degree or intensity

Example

He has the greatest amount of knowledge in the field.

most spacious

A slightly formal way of expressing the highest level of space or room

Example

The penthouse suite is the most spacious accommodation available.

Using than with comparative “bigger”

When using the comparative form bigger to compare two things, you would use than to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "The elephant is bigger than the lion." Here, than is used to show that the size of the elephant is greater than the size of the lion.

How can I use this expression in context?

“bigger” and “biggest” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.

• 1. Physical Objects

  The new TV is bigger than the old one.

  The new TV is bigger than the old one.

• 2. Buildings

  The skyscraper is the biggest structure in the city.

  The skyscraper is the biggest structure in the city.

• 3. Populations

  Tokyo has the biggest population in Japan.

  Tokyo has the biggest population in Japan.

• 4. Achievements

  Winning the championship was his biggest accomplishment.

  Winning the championship was his biggest accomplishment.

• 5. Numbers

  The number of participants in this year's marathon was bigger than last year's.

  The number of participants in this year's marathon was bigger than last year's.

Related idioms and phrases

Go big or go home

To do something in a bold or extravagant manner, or not do it at all.

Example

If you're going to throw a party, go big or go home.

Big fish in a small pond

Someone who is important or successful within a limited context.

Example

He was a big fish in a small pond at his previous company, but now he's just another employee here.

Big shot

An important or influential person.

Example

She's a big shot in the fashion industry.