Learn how to use the comparative “smarter” and superlative “smartest” with example sentences and differences.

📝

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 “smarter”?

The comparative form of “smarter” is “smarter”.

Example

John is smarter than his sister.

Example

She studied smarter and achieved better grades.

What is the superlative form of “smarter”?

The superlative form of “smarter” is “smartest”.

Example

Among all the students, she is the smartest.

Example

He is known for being the smartest person in the room.

Why is this expression not used with most, more?

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

Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?

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

Expressions with similar meanings to “smarter”

Used to describe someone who has a higher level of intelligence

Example

The professor is more intelligent than his students.

Used to indicate someone who has more knowledge and understanding

Example

The old man's advice was wiser than anyone else's.

Used to describe someone who has quick thinking and mental agility

Example

Her mind is sharper than a razor.

Expressions with similar meanings to “smartest”

Similar to smartest, this emphasizes the highest level of intelligence

Example

The scientist is considered the most intelligent person in the field.

Used to describe someone who possesses the highest level of knowledge and understanding

Example

The philosopher is regarded as the wisest person of his time.

Used to describe someone who has the quickest thinking and mental agility

Example

The detective's mind is the sharpest in the precinct.

Using than with comparative “smarter”

When using the comparative form smarter to compare two things, you would use than to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "He is smarter than his classmates." Here, than is used to show that the intelligence of 'he' is greater than the intelligence of his classmates.

How can I use this expression in context?

“smarter” and “smartest” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.
  • 1Education

    She is the smartest student in her class.

    She is the smartest student in her class.

  • 2Problem Solving

    He came up with a smarter solution to the issue.

    He came up with a smarter solution to the issue.

  • 3Decision Making

    The CEO made the smartest decision for the company.

    The CEO made the smartest decision for the company.

  • 4Technology

    The new smartphone is smarter than its predecessor.

    The new smartphone is smarter than its predecessor.

  • 5Business

    The entrepreneur had a smarter approach to marketing.

    The entrepreneur had a smarter approach to marketing.

Related idioms and phrases

A smart cookie

Someone who is intelligent or clever.

Example

She figured out the puzzle quickly. She's a smart cookie.

Smart as a whip

Extremely clever or intelligent.

Example

He always has the right answer. He's smart as a whip.

Street smart

Having practical knowledge and common sense, especially in urban environments.

Example

Growing up in the city, she learned to be street smart.

This content was generated with the assistance of AI technology based on RedKiwi's unique learning data. By utilizing automated AI content, we can quickly deliver a wide range of highly accurate content to users. Experience the benefits of AI by having your questions answered and receiving reliable information!