Learn how to use the comparative “lighter” and superlative “lightest” 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 “featherlight”?

The comparative form of “featherlight” is “lighter”.

Example

The new model is lighter than the previous one.

Example

She felt lighter after losing weight.

What is the superlative form of “featherlight”?

The superlative form of “featherlight” is “lightest”.

Example

Among all the laptops, this one is the lightest.

Example

The feather was the lightest object in the room.

Why is this expression not used with most, more?

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

Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?

'Featherlight' does not have an irregular comparative or superlative form. It follows the standard pattern for forming comparatives and superlatives. So, to summarize: Comparative: FeatherlightLighter Superlative: FeatherlightLightest

Expressions with similar meanings to “lighter”

Used to describe something that feels extremely light or has no weight at all

Example

The helium balloon floated weightlessly in the air.

Used to describe something that feels light and delicate

Example

The chiffon dress felt airy and comfortable on a hot summer day.

Used to describe something that is light and soft, often referring to texture

Example

The fluffy clouds floated across the sky.

Expressions with similar meanings to “lightest”

Similar to lightest, this emphasizes the absence of weight

Example

The astronaut experienced weightlessness in space.

Used to describe something that feels extremely light and delicate

Example

The airiest fabric gently brushed against her skin.

Used to describe something that is extremely light and soft, often referring to texture

Example

The fluffiest pillow provided a comfortable night's sleep.

Using than with comparative “lighter”

When using the comparative form 'lighter' to compare two things, you would use 'than' to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "The new model is lighter than the previous one." Here, 'than' is used to show that the weight of the new model is less than the weight of the previous one.

How can I use this expression in context?

“lighter” and “lightest” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.
  • 1Objects

    The new suitcase is lighter than the old one.

    The new suitcase is lighter than the old one.

  • 2Physical Sensations

    After the workout, she felt lighter and more energetic.

    After the workout, she felt lighter and more energetic.

  • 3Fabrics

    The silk scarf is lighter and more breathable than the woolen one.

    The silk scarf is lighter and more breathable than the woolen one.

  • 4Food

    The salad is a lighter option compared to the burger.

    The salad is a lighter option compared to the burger.

  • 5Emotions

    She felt lightest when she forgave herself for past mistakes.

    She felt lightest when she forgave herself for past mistakes.

Related idioms and phrases

As light as a feather

To be extremely light or weightless.

Example

The dancer leapt through the air, feeling as light as a feather.

Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee

To move gracefully and lightly, but with great power or impact.

Example

The boxer's footwork allowed him to float like a butterfly, sting like a bee in the ring.

Light at the end of the tunnel

A metaphorical phrase indicating hope or relief after a difficult or challenging situation.

Example

After months of hard work, she finally saw the light at the end of the tunnel.

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