Learn how to use the comparative “lower” and superlative “lowest” 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 “lowish”?

The comparative form of “lowish” is “lower”.

Example

The temperature today is lower than yesterday.

Example

He scored lower on the test than his classmates.

What is the superlative form of “lowish”?

The superlative form of “lowish” is “lowest”.

Example

Among all the prices, this one is the lowest.

Example

Her score on the test was the lowest in the class.

Why is this expression not used with most, more?

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

Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?

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

Expressions with similar meanings to “lower”

Used to describe something that is lower in quantity or quality

Example

She received a lesser grade than her friend on the project.

Used to indicate something that is lower in rank or status

Example

The team's performance was inferior to their opponents'.

A more general term for indicating a smaller amount or degree

Example

He has less money than his brother.

Expressions with similar meanings to “lowest”

Used to describe the smallest amount or degree

Example

She had the least amount of experience among the applicants.

Similar to lowest, this emphasizes the smallest size or quantity

Example

The toy with the smallest dimensions fits perfectly in the box.

Used to indicate the lowest level of strength or power

Example

The team's defense was the weakest link in their game.

Using than with comparative “lower”

When using the comparative form 'lower' to compare two things, you would use 'than' to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "The price is lower than last week." Here, 'than' is used to show that the price is at a smaller value compared to the previous week.

How can I use this expression in context?

“lower” and “lowest” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.
  • 1Temperature

    The temperature in winter is lower than in summer.

    The temperature in winter is lower than in summer.

  • 2Rankings

    He finished in the lowest position in the race.

    He finished in the lowest position in the race.

  • 3Prices

    This store offers the lowest prices in town.

    This store offers the lowest prices in town.

  • 4Scores

    Her test score was lower than the average.

    Her test score was lower than the average.

  • 5Hierarchy

    He is at the lowest level in the company.

    He is at the lowest level in the company.

Related idioms and phrases

Hit rock bottom

To reach the lowest point or level

Example

After losing his job and his home, he felt like he had hit rock bottom.

Down in the dumps

Feeling sad or depressed

Example

She has been down in the dumps since her pet passed away.

Bend over backwards

To make a great effort or sacrifice for someone

Example

He bent over backwards to help his friend move to a new apartment.

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