Learn how to use the comparative “cheaper” and superlative “cheapest” 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 “cheap”?

The comparative form of “cheap” is “cheaper”.

Example

This store sells cheaper clothes than the one down the street.

Example

Buying in bulk is cheaper than buying individual items.

What is the superlative form of “cheap”?

The superlative form of “cheap” is “cheapest”.

Example

Among all the options, this is the cheapest one.

Example

The dollar store is known for having the cheapest prices.

Why is this expression not used with most, more?

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

Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?

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

Expressions with similar meanings to “cheaper”

Used to describe something that is more within one's budget or financial means

Example

The new housing development offers more affordable homes for first-time buyers.

Similar to cheap, this word emphasizes low cost

Example

She found an inexpensive restaurant for dinner.

Used to indicate something that provides good value for the price

Example

The hybrid car is a more economical choice in terms of fuel efficiency.

Expressions with similar meanings to “cheapest”

Similar to cheapest, this emphasizes the lowest price within one's budget

Example

The thrift store offers the most affordable clothing options.

Used to describe the lowest price in comparison to other options

Example

Out of all the hotels, this one is the least expensive.

Similar to cheapest, this emphasizes the best value for the price

Example

The energy-efficient appliance is the most economical choice in the long run.

Using than with comparative “cheaper”

When using the comparative form cheaper to compare two things, you would use than to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "This shirt is cheaper than that one." Here, than is used to show that the price of 'this' shirt is lower than the price of 'that' shirt.

How can I use this expression in context?

“cheaper” and “cheapest” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.
  • 1Shopping

    The online store offers cheaper prices than the physical store.

    The online store offers cheaper prices than the physical store.

  • 2Travel

    Booking flights in advance can result in cheaper fares.

    Booking flights in advance can result in cheaper fares.

  • 3Housing

    Renting an apartment is usually cheaper than buying a house.

    Renting an apartment is usually cheaper than buying a house.

  • 4Food

    Eating at home is usually cheaper than dining out.

    Eating at home is usually cheaper than dining out.

  • 5Services

    This company provides the cheapest internet service in the area.

    This company provides the cheapest internet service in the area.

Related idioms and phrases

Penny-pincher

Someone who is very frugal or stingy with money.

Example

He's such a penny-pincher that he never buys anything unless it's on sale.

Bargain hunter

Someone who actively seeks out good deals and discounts.

Example

She spends hours searching for the best prices online. She's a real bargain hunter.

Dirt cheap

Extremely inexpensive.

Example

I found these shoes on sale for only $5. They were dirt cheap.

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