Learn how to use the comparative “closer” and superlative “closest” 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 “proxima”?

The comparative form of “proxima” is “closer”.

Example

The next train is closer than the previous one.

Example

The new location is closer to the city center.

What is the superlative form of “proxima”?

The superlative form of “proxima” is “closest”.

Example

Out of all the options, this one is the closest to what we need.

Example

He is considered the closest friend I have.

Why is this expression not used with most, more?

"Most" and "more" are not used with "close," "closer," and "closest." Instead, "closer" and "closest" are the appropriate comparatives and superlatives for "close." Using "most close" or "more close" would be grammatically incorrect.

Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?

"Close" has a regular comparative and superlative form. It follows the pattern: - Comparative form: Close → Closer - Superlative form: Close → Closest

Expressions with similar meanings to “closer”

Used to describe something that is at a shorter distance.

Example

The supermarket is much nearer to my house now.

Used to indicate something that is next to or adjoining another thing.

Example

The two buildings are adjacent to each other.

Used to describe something that is very close or immediate.

Example

The proximate cause of the accident was the driver's negligence.

Expressions with similar meanings to “closest”

Used to describe something that is at the shortest distance.

Example

The nearest parking spot was just around the corner.

Used to indicate the most extreme or final option.

Example

The ultimate goal is to achieve complete customer satisfaction.

Using than with comparative “closer”

When using the comparative form "closer" to compare two things, you would use "than" to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "The next train is closer than the previous one." Here, "than" is used to show that the distance of the next train is shorter than the distance of the previous one.

How can I use this expression in context?

“closer” and “closest” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.
  • 1Location

    The new office is closer to my home.

    The new office is closer to my home.

  • 2Relationships

    She is my closest friend.

    She is my closest friend.

  • 3Options

    This solution is the closest to what we need.

    This solution is the closest to what we need.

  • 4Time

    The deadline is getting closer.

    The deadline is getting closer.

Related idioms and phrases

Close but no cigar

To come close to success but fall short.

Example

He almost won the race, but it was close but no cigar.

Keep someone at arm's length

To maintain a certain distance or avoid getting too close to someone.

Example

After their argument, she decided to keep him at arm's length.

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