Learn how to use the comparative “happier” and superlative “happiest” with example sentences and differences.

📝

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 “happy”?

The comparative form of “happy” is “happier”.

Example

She seems happier now that she got a promotion.

Example

I feel happier when I spend time with my friends.

What is the superlative form of “happy”?

The superlative form of “happy” is “happiest”.

Example

Among all the contestants, she was the happiest to win the prize.

Example

The birth of their child was the happiest moment of their lives.

Why is this expression not used with most, more?

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

Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?

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

Expressions with similar meanings to “happier”

Used to describe a higher level of joy or happiness

Example

The children were more joyful than ever on Christmas morning.

Used to describe a higher level of happiness in a festive or social setting

Example

The party became merrier as more guests arrived.

more content

Used to describe a higher level of satisfaction or happiness with one's current situation

Example

After finding her true passion, she felt more content with her life.

Expressions with similar meanings to “happiest”

Similar to happiest, this emphasizes the highest level of joy or happiness

Example

The bride and groom were the most joyful couple at the wedding.

Similar to happiest, this emphasizes the highest level of happiness in a festive or social setting

Example

The Christmas party was filled with laughter and the merriest atmosphere.

most content

Similar to happiest, this emphasizes the highest level of satisfaction or happiness with one's current situation

Example

After achieving her lifelong dream, she felt the most content she had ever been.

Using than with comparative “happier”

When using the comparative form happier to compare two things, you would use than to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "She is happier than her sister." Here, than is used to show that the level of happiness of 'she' is greater than the level of happiness of her sister.

How can I use this expression in context?

“happier” and “happiest” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.
  • 1Personal Emotions

    He felt happier after resolving the conflict.

    He felt happier after resolving the conflict.

  • 2Achievements

    Winning the championship made her the happiest person in the room.

    Winning the championship made her the happiest person in the room.

  • 3Relationships

    Being with her loved ones always makes her happier.

    Being with her loved ones always makes her happier.

  • 4Events

    The surprise party was the happiest moment of his life.

    The surprise party was the happiest moment of his life.

  • 5Accomplishments

    Graduating at the top of her class was her happiest achievement.

    Graduating at the top of her class was her happiest achievement.

Related idioms and phrases

On cloud nine

To be extremely happy or joyful.

Example

After receiving the good news, she was on cloud nine.

Jump for joy

To express extreme happiness or excitement by jumping up and down.

Example

When they heard they won the lottery, they jumped for joy.

Happy as a clam

To be very happy and content.

Example

After a day at the beach, she was happy as a clam.

This content was generated with the assistance of AI technology based on RedKiwi's unique learning data. By utilizing automated AI content, we can quickly deliver a wide range of highly accurate content to users. Experience the benefits of AI by having your questions answered and receiving reliable information!