Learn how to use the comparative “steeper” and superlative “steepest” with example sentences and differences.

What is the comparative form of “steepest”?

The comparative form of “steepest” is “steeper”.

Example

The hill is steeper than it looks.

Example

She climbed the mountain steeper than anyone else.

What is the superlative form of “steepest”?

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

Example

Among all the hills, this one is the steepest.

Example

The roller coaster has the steepest drop.

Why is this expression not used with most, more?

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

Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?

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

Expressions with similar meanings to “steeper”

more precipitous

Used to describe something that is even more steep or sheer

Example

The more precipitous side of the cliff is not suitable for climbing.

more vertical

Used to indicate a steeper angle or incline

Example

The more vertical slope requires specialized climbing equipment.

more abrupt

Describing a sudden or sharp change in elevation

Example

The more abrupt drop-off at the end of the trail caught hikers by surprise.

Expressions with similar meanings to “steepest”

most precipitous

Similar to steepest, this emphasizes the extreme steepness or sheerness

Example

The most precipitous section of the mountain is only accessible to experienced climbers.

most vertical

Used to describe the highest degree of steepness or incline

Example

The most vertical part of the rock face requires advanced climbing techniques.

most abrupt

Describing the most sudden or sharp change in elevation

Example

The most abrupt descent on the trail is marked with warning signs.

Using than with comparative “steeper”

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

How can I use this expression in context?

“steeper” and “steepest” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.

• 1. Terrain

  The trail becomes steeper as it ascends the mountain.

  The trail becomes steeper as it ascends the mountain.

• 2. Architecture

  The staircase has the steepest incline in the building.

  The staircase has the steepest incline in the building.

• 3. Skiing

  The black diamond slope is known for being the steepest run on the mountain.

  The black diamond slope is known for being the steepest run on the mountain.

• 4. Grades

  He received the steepest grade on the test due to his excellent performance.

  He received the steepest grade on the test due to his excellent performance.

• 5. Learning Curve

  The subject with the most complex concepts had the steepest learning curve.

  The subject with the most complex concepts had the steepest learning curve.

Related idioms and phrases

Uphill battle

A difficult struggle or challenge.

Example

Starting a new business can be an uphill battle.

Climb the ladder

To work your way up in a career or organization.

Example

She started as an intern and worked hard to climb the ladder to become a manager.

Hit the ground running

To start a project or job quickly and energetically.

Example

On her first day at the new job, she was ready to hit the ground running.