Learn how to use the comparative “cleverer” and superlative “cleverest” 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 “clever”?

The comparative form of “clever” is “cleverer”.

Example

John is cleverer than his brother.

Example

She solved the puzzle cleverer than anyone else.

What is the superlative form of “clever”?

The superlative form of “clever” is “cleverest”.

Example

Among all the students, she is the cleverest.

Example

The magician is known for being the cleverest performer.

Why is this expression not used with most, more?

'Most' and 'more' can be used with clever, cleverer, and cleverest to indicate increased levels of cleverness. Both forms are acceptable and commonly used.

Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?

Clever follows the regular pattern for forming comparatives and superlatives. So, to summarize: Comparative: CleverCleverer or More clever Superlative: CleverCleverest or Most clever

Expressions with similar meanings to “cleverer”

Used to describe someone who is clever in an intelligent or intellectual way

Example

He is known for being the smarter one in the group.

A slightly formal way of expressing increased cleverness

Example

The more intelligent students were able to solve the complex math problem.

Expressions with similar meanings to “cleverest”

Similar to cleverest, this emphasizes both intelligence and cleverness

Example

The smartest person in the room always comes up with innovative solutions.

A slightly formal way of expressing the highest level of cleverness

Example

The most intelligent student in the class received the highest grade.

Using than with comparative “cleverer”

When using the comparative form cleverer to compare two things, you would use than to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "She is cleverer than her sister." Here, than is used to show that the level of 'her' cleverness is greater than the level of her sister's cleverness.

How can I use this expression in context?

“cleverer” and “cleverest” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.
  • 1Intellectual Abilities

    He is cleverer than his classmates in solving math problems.

    He is cleverer than his classmates in solving math problems.

  • 2Problem Solving

    She came up with the cleverest solution to the puzzle.

    She came up with the cleverest solution to the puzzle.

  • 3Creativity

    The artist's work is considered the cleverest in the exhibition.

    The artist's work is considered the cleverest in the exhibition.

  • 4Innovation

    The company's CEO is known for being the cleverest in the industry.

    The company's CEO is known for being the cleverest in the industry.

  • 5Humor

    He always comes up with the cleverest jokes at parties.

    He always comes up with the cleverest jokes at parties.

Related idioms and phrases

A penny for your thoughts

A way to ask someone what they are thinking about.

Example

You seem lost in thought. A penny for your thoughts?

Put on your thinking cap

To encourage someone to think carefully or creatively about something.

Example

We need to come up with a solution. Put on your thinking cap and let's brainstorm.

Outsmart someone

To defeat or outwit someone by being more clever or intelligent.

Example

He was able to outsmart his opponent and win the chess game.

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