Learn how to use the comparative “burlier” and superlative “burliest” 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 “burly”?

The comparative form of “burly” is “burlier”.

Example

The weightlifter is burlier than the runner.

Example

He has become burlier since he started lifting weights.

What is the superlative form of “burly”?

The superlative form of “burly” is “burliest”.

Example

Among all the contestants, he is the burliest.

Example

The bear is known for being the burliest animal in the forest.

Why is this expression not used with most, more?

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

Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?

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

Expressions with similar meanings to “burlier”

Used to describe someone or something that is larger and heavier in a solid or substantial way

Example

The bulkier wrestler easily overpowered his opponent.

Used to indicate someone or something that has more weight or mass

Example

The heavier suitcase was more difficult to carry.

A way of describing someone who has developed more muscle mass

Example

The bodybuilder's arms were more muscular than anyone else's.

Expressions with similar meanings to “burliest”

Similar to burliest, this emphasizes size and weight in a solid or substantial manner

Example

The elephant is the bulkiest land animal on Earth.

Used to describe the highest level of weight or mass

Example

The heaviest dumbbell in the gym was too heavy for most people to lift.

A way of describing the highest level of muscle mass

Example

Among all the bodybuilders, he has the most muscular physique.

Using than with comparative “burlier”

When using the comparative form burlier to compare two things, you would use than to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "He is burlier than his brother." Here, than is used to show that the size or weight of 'he' is greater than the size or weight of his brother.

How can I use this expression in context?

“burlier” and “burliest” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.
  • 1Physical Appearance

    The bodybuilder has a burlier physique than the marathon runner.

    The bodybuilder has a burlier physique than the marathon runner.

  • 2Animals

    The grizzly bear is known for being the burliest bear species.

    The grizzly bear is known for being the burliest bear species.

  • 3Objects

    The new sofa is burlier than the old one.

    The new sofa is burlier than the old one.

  • 4Professions

    The construction worker is often portrayed as being burlier than other professions.

    The construction worker is often portrayed as being burlier than other professions.

  • 5Food

    The burrito at the new restaurant is the burliest one I've ever seen.

    The burrito at the new restaurant is the burliest one I've ever seen.

Related idioms and phrases

Built like a brick house

Describing someone who is very strong and muscular.

Example

The professional bodybuilder is built like a brick house.

Strong as an ox

Describing someone who is exceptionally strong.

Example

Despite his small stature, he is strong as an ox.

Heavy as lead

Describing something that is very heavy.

Example

The box was heavy as lead and difficult to lift.

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