Learn how to use the comparative “higher” and superlative “highest” 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 “overhigh”?

The comparative form of “overhigh” is “higher”.

Example

The mountain peak is higher than the surrounding hills.

Example

She jumped higher than anyone else in the competition.

What is the superlative form of “overhigh”?

The superlative form of “overhigh” is “highest”.

Example

Mount Everest is the highest peak in the world.

Example

She achieved the highest score in the history of the competition.

Why is this expression not used with most, more?

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

Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?

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

Expressions with similar meanings to “higher”

Used to describe something that has a greater height

Example

The taller building can be seen from miles away.

Used to indicate something that is raised or lifted to a higher position

Example

He stood on an elevated platform to give his speech.

A slightly formal way of expressing increased height

Example

The more elevated regions of the city offer stunning views.

Expressions with similar meanings to “highest”

Similar to highest, this emphasizes the greatest height

Example

The Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world.

A slightly formal way of expressing the highest level of height

Example

The most elevated point of the hike offers breathtaking views.

Using than with comparative “higher”

When using the comparative form higher to compare two things, you would use than to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "The mountain is higher than the hill." Here, than is used to show that the height of the mountain is greater than the height of the hill.

How can I use this expression in context?

“higher” and “highest” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.
  • 1Mountains

    The Himalayas are higher than the Alps.

    The Himalayas are higher than the Alps.

  • 2Buildings

    The skyscraper is higher than the neighboring buildings.

    The skyscraper is higher than the neighboring buildings.

  • 3Scores

    She achieved the highest score in the class.

    She achieved the highest score in the class.

  • 4Achievements

    His latest achievement is his highest accomplishment.

    His latest achievement is his highest accomplishment.

Related idioms and phrases

Reach for the stars

To set ambitious goals and strive for great achievements.

Example

She always encourages her students to reach for the stars.

On top of the world

Feeling extremely happy or successful.

Example

After winning the championship, he felt like he was on top of the world.

Head and shoulders above

Significantly better or superior to others.

Example

Her talent puts her head and shoulders above the rest of the competitors.

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