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 “dirty”?

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

Example

The kitchen was dirtier than I expected.

Example

He made his room dirtier by not cleaning up after himself.

What is the superlative form of “dirty”?

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

Example

Among all the rooms, the basement is the dirtiest.

Example

The river is known for being the dirtiest body of water in the area.

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 disgusting or offensive way

Example

The public restroom was filthier than I had ever seen.

Used to indicate something that is dirtier in a grimy or unkempt way

Example

His hands were grubbier after playing in the mud all day.

A slightly formal way of expressing increased dirtiness

Example

The neglected house was more unclean than any other on the block.

Expressions with similar meanings to “dirtiest”

Similar to dirtiest, this emphasizes both dirtiness and offensiveness

Example

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

Used to describe the highest level of dirtiness in a grimy or unkempt way

Example

The abandoned building was the grubbiest place in town.

A slightly formal way of expressing the highest level of dirtiness

Example

The hoarder's house was the most unclean dwelling I had ever visited.

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: "His clothes are dirtier than mine." Here, than is used to show that the level of dirtiness in 'his' clothes is greater than the level of dirtiness in 'mine'.

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 was dirtier than the rest of the house.

    The bathroom was dirtier than the rest of the house.

  • 2Clothing

    Her socks were dirtier than her shoes.

    Her socks were dirtier than her shoes.

  • 3Environment

    The polluted river was the dirtiest body of water in the region.

    The polluted river was the dirtiest body of water in the region.

  • 4Food

    The unwashed vegetables were the dirtiest part of the meal.

    The unwashed vegetables were the dirtiest part of the meal.

  • 5Behavior

    His actions were dirtier than his words.

    His actions were dirtier than his words.

Related idioms and phrases

Dirty laundry

Personal matters or secrets that should be kept private.

Example

She aired her dirty laundry in public by discussing her personal problems on social media.

Dirty work

Unpleasant or morally questionable tasks that someone has to do.

Example

He was assigned the dirty work of cleaning up the mess.

Dirty tricks

Deceptive or underhanded methods used to achieve a goal.

Example

The politician was accused of using dirty tricks to win the election.

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