Learn how to use the comparative “smarter” and superlative “smartest” 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 “smartest”?

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

Example

She is smarter than her classmates.

Example

He became smarter after studying for the exam.

What is the superlative form of “smartest”?

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

Example

Among all the students, she is the smartest.

Example

He was recognized as 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 is wiser than his younger counterparts.

Used to describe someone who has quick thinking and mental agility

Example

The detective's mind is sharper than anyone else's in the force.

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 in the world.

Similar to smartest, this emphasizes quick thinking and mental agility

Example

The lawyer's arguments are always the sharpest in the courtroom.

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: "She is smarter than her brother." Here, than is used to show that the level of intelligence of 'she' is greater than the level of intelligence of her brother.

How can I use this expression in context?

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

    The top student in the class is always the smartest.

    The top student in the class is always the smartest.

  • 2Problem Solving

    He came up with the smartest solution to the puzzle.

    He came up with the smartest solution to the puzzle.

  • 3Business

    The CEO is known for making the smartest decisions.

    The CEO is known for making the smartest decisions.

  • 4Technology

    The new smartphone is considered the smartest on the market.

    The new smartphone is considered the smartest on the market.

  • 5Strategy

    The chess player made the smartest move to win the game.

    The chess player made the smartest move to win the game.

Related idioms and phrases

A penny for your thoughts

Asking someone what they are thinking about.

Example

You seem deep in thought. A penny for your thoughts?

Put on your thinking cap

To encourage someone to think carefully or creatively about something.

Example

We need to come up with a solution. Put on your thinking cap!

Brainstorm

To generate ideas or solutions through group discussion and collaboration.

Example

Let's brainstorm some ideas for the project.

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