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

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

Example

The feather is lighter than the rock.

Example

She carried the lighter suitcase on her trip.

What is the superlative form of “lightest”?

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

Example

Among all the fruits, the raspberry is the lightest.

Example

The paper airplane is known for being the lightest flying object.

Why is this expression not used with most, more?

'Most' and 'more' are generally not used with light, lighter, and lightest. They’re considered regular comparatives and superlatives. The forms 'more light' and 'most light' 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?

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

Expressions with similar meanings to “lighter”

Used to describe something that has a lower weight

Example

The package was less heavy than I expected.

Used to indicate something that is lighter in terms of weight or mass

Example

The new laptop is more lightweight than the previous model.

Used to describe something that is less physically or emotionally demanding

Example

After decluttering, her life felt less burdensome.

Expressions with similar meanings to “lightest”

Similar to lightest, this emphasizes having the lowest weight

Example

The bag of feathers was the least heavy of all the items.

Used to describe the highest level of lightness in terms of weight or mass

Example

The racing bike is the most lightweight option available.

Used to describe something that is the least physically or emotionally demanding

Example

The least burdensome task was assigned to the new employee.

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 feather is lighter than the rock." Here, than is used to show that the weight of the feather is lower than the weight of the rock.

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 phone is lighter than the old one.

    The new phone is lighter than the old one.

  • 2Food

    The salad is lighter than the burger.

    The salad is lighter than the burger.

  • 3Materials

    The fabric is lighter than the metal.

    The fabric is lighter than the metal.

  • 4Luggage

    She packed the lightest suitcase for her weekend trip.

    She packed the lightest suitcase for her weekend trip.

  • 5Sports

    He lifted the lightest weight in the competition.

    He lifted the lightest weight in the competition.

Related idioms and phrases

As light as a feather

Describing something that is extremely light or weightless.

Example

The chiffon dress was as light as a feather.

In the light of

Considering or taking into account a particular fact or situation.

Example

In the light of recent events, we need to reassess our strategy.

Light at the end of the tunnel

A metaphorical expression meaning that there is 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.

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!