Learn how to use the comparative “brighter” and superlative “brightest” with example sentences and differences.

What is the comparative form of “overbright”?

The comparative form of “overbright” is “brighter”.

Example

The sun is brighter than the moon.

Example

She turned up the brightness on her phone screen to make it brighter.

What is the superlative form of “overbright”?

The superlative form of “overbright” is “brightest”.

Example

Among all the stars, Sirius is the brightest.

Example

The fireworks display was known for its brightest explosions.

Why is this expression not used with most, more?

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

Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?

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

Expressions with similar meanings to “brighter”

shinier

Used to describe something that reflects more light and appears brighter

Example

The polished silverware looked shinier than ever.

luminous

Used to describe something that emits a strong, bright light

Example

The luminous glow of the full moon illuminated the night sky.

more radiant

A slightly formal way of expressing increased brightness

Example

Her smile made her face look more radiant.

Expressions with similar meanings to “brightest”

shiniest

Similar to brightest, this emphasizes both brightness and reflectiveness

Example

The diamond necklace was the shiniest piece of jewelry she owned.

most luminous

A slightly formal way of expressing the highest level of brightness

Example

The most luminous star in the sky could be seen from miles away.

most radiant

Used to describe the highest level of brightness in a formal or poetic manner

Example

Her beauty shone through, making her the most radiant person in the room.

Using than with comparative “brighter”

When using the comparative form brighter to compare two things, you would use than to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "The sun is brighter than the moon." Here, than is used to show that the brightness of the sun is greater than the brightness of the moon.

How can I use this expression in context?

“brighter” and “brightest” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.

• 1. Light Sources

  The new LED bulb is brighter than the old incandescent one.

  The new LED bulb is brighter than the old incandescent one.

• 2. Colors

  The yellow paint is brighter than the blue paint.

  The yellow paint is brighter than the blue paint.

• 3. Screens

  He adjusted the settings to make the display brighter.

  He adjusted the settings to make the display brighter.

• 4. Stars

  Venus is the brightest planet in our solar system.

  Venus is the brightest planet in our solar system.

• 5. Achievements

  Winning the award was the brightest moment of her career.

  Winning the award was the brightest moment of her career.

Related idioms and phrases

Bright-eyed and bushy-tailed

To be alert, enthusiastic, and full of energy.

Example

Despite the early morning, she arrived at work bright-eyed and bushy-tailed.

As bright as a button

To be very intelligent or quick-witted.

Example

She always has the right answer in class. She's as bright as a button.

Brighten someone's day

To make someone feel happier or more positive.

Example

Her kind words really brightened my day.