Learn how to use the comparative “riper” and superlative “ripest” with example sentences and differences.

What is the comparative form of “ripe”?

The comparative form of “ripe” is “riper”.

Example

The banana is riper than the apple.

Example

This avocado is riper than the one I had yesterday.

What is the superlative form of “ripe”?

The superlative form of “ripe” is “ripest”.

Example

Among all the fruits, the mango is the ripest.

Example

This tomato is known for being the ripest in the garden.

Why is this expression not used with most, more?

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

Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?

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

Expressions with similar meanings to “riper”

maturer

Used to describe something that is more mature or developed

Example

The maturer fruit has a sweeter taste.

more developed

A slightly formal way of expressing increased maturity or advancement

Example

The more developed stage of the plant requires more care.

Expressions with similar meanings to “ripest”

most mature

Similar to ripest, this emphasizes the highest level of maturity or development

Example

The most mature fruit is ready to be harvested.

most developed

A slightly formal way of expressing the highest level of maturity or advancement

Example

The most developed stage of the project requires additional resources.

Using than with comparative “riper”

When using the comparative form riper to compare two things, you would use than to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "The mango is riper than the banana." Here, than is used to show that the level of ripeness of the mango is greater than the level of ripeness of the banana.

How can I use this expression in context?

“riper” and “ripest” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.

• 1. Fruits

  The peach is riper than the pear.

  The peach is riper than the pear.

• 2. Vegetables

  The tomato is riper than the cucumber.

  The tomato is riper than the cucumber.

• 3. Cheese

  The aged cheddar is riper than the fresh mozzarella.

  The aged cheddar is riper than the fresh mozzarella.

• 4. Wine

  The red wine is riper than the white wine.

  The red wine is riper than the white wine.

• 5. Bananas

  The yellow banana is riper than the green one.

  The yellow banana is riper than the green one.

Related idioms and phrases

The apple doesn't fall far from the tree

Children often resemble their parents or share similar traits.

Example

Like his father, he has a talent for music. The apple doesn't fall far from the tree.

In the prime of life

At the peak or best stage of one's life.

Example

She was in her 30s, in the prime of life, when she achieved great success.

Bear fruit

To produce positive results or outcomes.

Example

After years of hard work, their efforts finally bore fruit and they achieved their goals.