Learn how to use the comparative “dirtier” and superlative “dirtiest” 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 “dirtier”?

The comparative form of “dirtier” is “dirtier”.

Example

The kitchen was dirtier than I expected.

Example

His room is dirtier than mine.

What is the superlative form of “dirtier”?

The superlative form of “dirtier” is “dirtiest”.

Example

Among all the rooms, the basement is the dirtiest.

Example

The river is known for being the dirtiest in the region.

Why is this expression not used with most, more?

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

Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?

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

Expressions with similar meanings to “dirtier”

Used to describe something that is dirtier in a more disgusting or repulsive way

Example

The public restroom was even filthier than I imagined.

Used to indicate something that is dirtier in terms of being covered in dirt or grime

Example

His hands were grubbier than mine after working in the garden.

A slightly formal way of expressing increased dirtiness

Example

The neglected house had more unclean surfaces than I could count.

Expressions with similar meanings to “dirtiest”

Similar to dirtiest, this emphasizes a higher level of disgust or repulsiveness

Example

The dumpster behind the restaurant was the filthiest place I've ever seen.

Used to describe the highest level of dirtiness in terms of being covered in dirt or grime

Example

The mechanic's hands were the grubbiest I've ever seen.

A slightly formal way of expressing the highest level of dirtiness

Example

The abandoned building was the most unclean place I've ever been in.

Using than with comparative “dirtier”

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

How can I use this expression in context?

“dirtier” and “dirtiest” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.
  • 1Living Spaces

    The bathroom is dirtier than the kitchen.

    The bathroom is dirtier than the kitchen.

  • 2Clothing

    His shirt is dirtier than hers.

    His shirt is dirtier than hers.

  • 3Environment

    The polluted city is known for having the dirtiest air.

    The polluted city is known for having the dirtiest air.

  • 4Objects

    The old shoes were dirtier than I remembered.

    The old shoes were dirtier than I remembered.

  • 5Behavior

    His actions were the dirtiest I've ever seen.

    His actions were the dirtiest I've ever seen.

Related idioms and phrases

Dirty laundry

Secrets or embarrassing information that someone wants to keep hidden

Example

She aired her dirty laundry by revealing all the details of their argument.

Throw dirt on someone's name

To spread negative rumors or gossip about someone

Example

He tried to throw dirt on her name by spreading false accusations.

Get your hands dirty

To become involved in a difficult or unpleasant task

Example

If you want to succeed in this business, you have to be willing to get your hands dirty.

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