Learn how to use the comparative “gloomier” and superlative “gloomiest” with example sentences and differences.

What is the comparative form of “gloomier”?

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

Example

Today's weather is gloomier than yesterday's.

Example

He became gloomier as the day went on.

What is the superlative form of “gloomier”?

The superlative form of “gloomier” is “gloomiest”.

Example

Among all the days of the week, Monday is the gloomiest.

Example

The haunted house is known for being the gloomiest place in town.

Why is this expression not used with most, more?

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

Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?

Gloomy does not have an irregular comparative or superlative form. It follows the standard pattern for forming comparatives and superlatives. So, to summarize: Comparative: Gloomy → Gloomier Superlative: Gloomy → Gloomiest

Expressions with similar meanings to “gloomier”

darker

Used to describe something that is more depressing or sad

Example

The darker tone of the movie left the audience feeling somber.

more somber

A slightly formal way of expressing increased gloominess

Example

The news of the tragedy cast a more somber mood over the entire town.

more dismal

Used to indicate something that is more dreary or bleak

Example

The abandoned house had a more dismal atmosphere than any other in the neighborhood.

Expressions with similar meanings to “gloomiest”

darkest

Similar to gloomiest, this emphasizes a higher level of depression or sadness

Example

The darkest days of her life were when she lost her loved ones.

most somber

Used to describe the highest level of gloominess in a formal manner

Example

The funeral had the most somber atmosphere imaginable.

most dismal

A slightly formal way of expressing the highest level of dreariness or bleakness

Example

The abandoned asylum was considered the most dismal place in the entire region.

Using than with comparative “gloomier”

When using the comparative form gloomier to compare two things, you would use than to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "Today's weather is gloomier than yesterday's." Here, than is used to show that the level of gloominess of today's weather is greater than the level of gloominess of yesterday's weather.

How can I use this expression in context?

“gloomier” and “gloomiest” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.

• 1. Weather

  The stormy sky made the atmosphere gloomier.

  The stormy sky made the atmosphere gloomier.

• 2. Mood

  His expression grew gloomier as he received bad news.

  His expression grew gloomier as he received bad news.

• 3. Places

  The abandoned mansion had the gloomiest ambiance.

  The abandoned mansion had the gloomiest ambiance.

• 4. Events

  The funeral had a gloomier atmosphere than expected.

  The funeral had a gloomier atmosphere than expected.

• 5. Stories

  The horror novel had the gloomiest ending imaginable.

  The horror novel had the gloomiest ending imaginable.

Related idioms and phrases

In the doldrums

Feeling sad or depressed.

Example

Ever since his breakup, he has been in the doldrums.

Rain on someone's parade

To spoil someone's plans or mood.

Example

She was excited about her promotion, but her coworker's negative comment rained on her parade.

Dark cloud over someone's head

Describing a person who is constantly surrounded by negativity or bad luck.

Example

No matter what he does, it seems like there's always a dark cloud over his head.