Learn how to use the comparative “cleaner” and superlative “cleanest” with example sentences and differences.

📝

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 “clean”?

The comparative form of “clean” is “cleaner”.

Example

The kitchen is cleaner than the bathroom.

Example

She made her room cleaner than it has ever been.

What is the superlative form of “clean”?

The superlative form of “clean” is “cleanest”.

Example

Among all the rooms, the living room is the cleanest.

Example

The hotel prides itself on having the cleanest rooms.

Why is this expression not used with most, more?

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

Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?

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

Expressions with similar meanings to “cleaner”

Used to describe something that is clean and organized

Example

Her desk is always neater than mine.

Similar to neater, this emphasizes cleanliness and orderliness

Example

He keeps his garage tidier than anyone else I know.

A slightly formal way of expressing increased cleanliness and hygiene

Example

The hospital has implemented more sanitary practices to prevent the spread of infections.

Expressions with similar meanings to “cleanest”

Similar to cleanest, this emphasizes both cleanliness and organization

Example

Out of all the students, she has the neatest locker.

Used to describe the highest level of cleanliness and orderliness

Example

Her garden is always the tidiest in the neighborhood.

A slightly formal way of expressing the highest level of cleanliness and hygiene

Example

The restaurant has received awards for having the most sanitary kitchen.

Using than with comparative “cleaner”

When using the comparative form cleaner to compare two things, you would use than to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "Her room is cleaner than mine." Here, than is used to show that the level of cleanliness in 'her' room is greater than the level of cleanliness in 'my' room.

How can I use this expression in context?

“cleaner” and “cleanest” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.
  • 1Household Chores

    She made the kitchen cleaner than it has ever been.

    She made the kitchen cleaner than it has ever been.

  • 2Personal Hygiene

    He keeps his hands cleaner than anyone else I know.

    He keeps his hands cleaner than anyone else I know.

  • 3Environment

    The park is known for being one of the cleanest in the city.

    The park is known for being one of the cleanest in the city.

  • 4Food Preparation

    The restaurant prides itself on having the cleanest kitchen.

    The restaurant prides itself on having the cleanest kitchen.

  • 5Healthcare

    The hospital has implemented more sanitary practices to prevent the spread of infections.

    The hospital has implemented more sanitary practices to prevent the spread of infections.

Related idioms and phrases

Clean as a whistle

Completely clean or pure.

Example

After scrubbing the floors, they were clean as a whistle.

Clean slate

Starting fresh or without any previous mistakes or problems.

Example

After apologizing, he wanted to start with a clean slate.

Clean sweep

To completely win or achieve success without any opposition or obstacles.

Example

The team made a clean sweep of all their matches in the tournament.

This content was generated with the assistance of AI technology based on RedKiwi's unique learning data. By utilizing automated AI content, we can quickly deliver a wide range of highly accurate content to users. Experience the benefits of AI by having your questions answered and receiving reliable information!