Learn how to use the comparative “closer” and superlative “closest” with example sentences and differences.

What is the comparative form of “closehauled”?

The comparative form of “closehauled” is “closer”.

Example

He sailed closer to the wind than anyone else.

Example

The second boat in the race finished closer to the first.

What is the superlative form of “closehauled”?

The superlative form of “closehauled” is “closest”.

Example

Out of all the competitors, he finished the closest to the finish line.

Example

This is the closest I've ever been to achieving my goal.

Why is this expression not used with most, more?

"Most" and "more" are not used with "closehauled," "closer," and "closest." Instead, "closer" and "closest" are the appropriate comparatives and superlatives for "closehauled." Using "most closehauled" or "more closehauled" would be grammatically incorrect.

Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?

"Closehauled" does not have a regular comparative and superlative form. It follows the pattern: - Comparative form: Closehauled → Closer - Superlative form: Closehauled → Closest

Expressions with similar meanings to “closer”

nearer

Used to describe something that is at a shorter distance.

Example

The store is much nearer than I thought.

adjacent

Used to indicate something that is next to or adjoining something else.

Example

The two houses are adjacent to each other.

proximate

Used to describe something that is very close or immediate.

Example

The proximate cause of the accident was the driver's negligence.

Expressions with similar meanings to “closest”

nearest

Used to describe something that is at the shortest distance.

Example

The nearest gas station is just a few blocks away.

ultimate

Used to indicate the most extreme or final point.

Example

Reaching the summit was the ultimate goal of their expedition.

Using than with comparative “closer”

When using the comparative form "closer" to compare two things, you would use "than" to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "He sailed closer to the wind than anyone else." Here, "than" is used to show that the distance he sailed to the wind was shorter than the distance sailed by anyone else.

How can I use this expression in context?

“closer” and “closest” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.

• 1. Sailing

  He came closer to winning the race than any other competitor.

  He came closer to winning the race than any other competitor.

• 2. Achievements

  This is the closest I've ever been to achieving my dream.

  This is the closest I've ever been to achieving my dream.

• 3. Relationships

  She is closer to her sister than to her brother.

  She is closer to her sister than to her brother.

• 4. Location

  The nearest grocery store is the closest to our house.

  The nearest grocery store is the closest to our house.