What is the comparative form of “earliest”?
The comparative form of “earliest” is “earlier”.Example
I woke up earlier than usual today.
Example
She arrived earlier than expected.
What is the superlative form of “earliest”?
The superlative form of “earliest” is “earliest”.Example
Among all the applicants, she submitted her application the earliest.
Example
The earliest known evidence of human civilization dates back thousands of years.
Why is this expression not used with most, more?
'Most' and 'more' are generally not used with early, earlier, and earliest. They’re considered regular comparatives and superlatives. The forms 'more early' and 'most early' are not used because they sound awkward. Instead, earlier and earliest are the correct and preferred forms to use.
Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?
Early does not have an irregular comparative or superlative form. It follows the standard pattern for forming comparatives and superlatives. So, to summarize: Comparative: Early → Earlier Superlative: Early → Earliest
Expressions with similar meanings to “earlier”
Used to describe something that happens before the expected or desired time
Example
He finished his work sooner than he thought he would.
Used to indicate that something happened before a specific point in time
Example
I had met him previously at a conference.
Used to describe something that is done in advance or prior to a particular event
Example
She prepared her presentation beforehand to ensure it was ready on time.
Expressions with similar meanings to “earliest”
Similar to earliest, this emphasizes being the initial or primary occurrence
Example
He was the first person to arrive at the meeting.
Used to describe something that happens at the beginning or start of a process
Example
The initial stage of the project involved brainstorming ideas.
Used to indicate something that is of utmost importance or significance
Example
His primary goal was to win the championship.
Using than with comparative “earlier”
When using the comparative form earlier to compare two things, you would use than to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "She arrived earlier than her friend." Here, than is used to show that the time of 'her' arrival is before the time of her friend's arrival.
How can I use this expression in context?
“earlier” and “earliest” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.- 1Appointments
Please arrive earlier than the scheduled time.
Please arrive earlier than the scheduled time.
- 2Deadlines
He completed the project earlier than expected.
He completed the project earlier than expected.
- 3Historical Events
The discovery of fire is one of the earliest milestones in human history.
The discovery of fire is one of the earliest milestones in human history.
- 4Arrivals
She reached the airport earlier than her travel companions.
She reached the airport earlier than her travel companions.
- 5Actions
He made the decision earlier than anyone else.
He made the decision earlier than anyone else.
Related idioms and phrases
Bright and early
To do something very early in the morning
Example
We'll meet at the park bright and early tomorrow.
The early bird catches the worm
Those who act promptly or arrive early will have an advantage
Example
He always arrives at work early, believing that the early bird catches the worm.
Early to bed, early to rise
Going to bed early and waking up early is beneficial for one's health and productivity
Example
She follows the saying early to bed, early to rise to maintain a consistent sleep schedule.
