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 “cheapest”?

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

Example

The store across the street sells the same product for a cheaper price.

Example

I found a cheaper flight to my destination.

What is the superlative form of “cheapest”?

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

Example

Among all the hotels in the area, this one is the cheapest.

Example

The thrift 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.

A slightly formal way of expressing a lower cost

Example

The less expensive option turned out to be just as good as the pricier one.

Used to indicate something that provides better value for money

Example

Switching to LED light bulbs is a more economical choice in the long run.

Expressions with similar meanings to “cheapest”

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

Example

The local food market offers the most affordable produce in town.

A slightly formal way of expressing the lowest cost

Example

The least expensive option turned out to be the best value for money.

Used to describe the best value for money

Example

The hybrid car is the most economical choice for fuel efficiency.

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 hotel is cheaper than the one next door." Here, than is used to show that the price of 'this hotel' is lower than the price of the hotel next door.

How can I use this expression in context?

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

    I found a cheaper alternative at a different store.

    I found a cheaper alternative at a different store.

  • 2Travel

    Booking in advance usually leads to cheaper flights.

    Booking in advance usually leads to cheaper flights.

  • 3Housing

    Renting a room is usually cheaper than renting a whole apartment.

    Renting a room is usually cheaper than renting a whole apartment.

  • 4Food

    Eating at home is usually cheaper than dining out.

    Eating at home is usually cheaper than dining out.

  • 5Services

    The new internet provider offers cheaper plans than the competition.

    The new internet provider offers cheaper plans than the competition.

Related idioms and phrases

Penny-pincher

Someone who is very careful with money and avoids spending it whenever possible.

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 when shopping.

Example

She's a skilled bargain hunter and always manages to find the best prices.

Cut corners

To do something in a cheaper or easier way, often sacrificing quality or safety.

Example

The company decided to cut corners to save money, but it resulted in a faulty product.

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