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

What is the comparative form of “bigger”?

The comparative form of “bigger” 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 “bigger”?

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

Example

Among all the fruits, the watermelon is the biggest.

Example

The skyscraper is known for being 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 box can hold more items.

greater

Used to indicate something that has more magnitude or importance

Example

He made a greater impact on the world with his invention.

more spacious

A slightly formal way of expressing increased space or room

Example

The more spacious apartment allows for better movement and comfort.

Expressions with similar meanings to “biggest”

largest

Similar to biggest, this emphasizes physical size or dimensions

Example

The largest country in the world is Russia.

greatest

Used to describe the highest level of magnitude or importance

Example

He made the greatest contribution to the field of science.

most spacious

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

Example

The most spacious room in the house is the living room.

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 new skyscraper is the biggest in the city.

  The new skyscraper is the biggest in the city.

• 3. Populations

  China has the biggest population in the world.

  China has the biggest population in the world.

• 4. Achievements

  Winning the championship was his biggest accomplishment.

  Winning the championship was his biggest accomplishment.

• 5. Quantities

  She bought the biggest bag of chips at the store.

  She bought the biggest bag of chips at the store.

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, you might as well go big or go home.

Big fish in a small pond

Someone who is important or successful in a small or limited environment.

Example

He was a big fish in a small pond in his hometown, but struggled to stand out in the big city.

Think big

To have ambitious or grand ideas or plans.

Example

When it comes to your goals, always think big and aim high.