Learn how to use the comparative “steeper” and superlative “steepest” 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 “steepish”?

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

Example

The hill is steeper than it looks.

Example

She took the steeper route to get to the top.

What is the superlative form of “steepish”?

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

Example

Among all the trails, this one is the steepest.

Example

The roller coaster has the steepest drop.

Why is this expression not used with most, more?

Steepish is already a comparative form of steep, so there is no need to use 'more' or 'most' with it. The forms 'more steepish' and 'most steepish' are not commonly used.

Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?

Steepish is not a standard adjective or adverb, so it does not follow the regular pattern for forming comparatives and superlatives. So, to summarize: Comparative: SteepishSteeper Superlative: SteepishSteepest

Expressions with similar meanings to “steeper”

Used to describe something that is even more steep or sheer

Example

The more precipitous cliffs are only accessible to experienced climbers.

Used to indicate a sudden or sharp increase in steepness

Example

The more abrupt incline made it difficult for the hikers to climb.

Used to describe something that is almost vertical or perpendicular

Example

The more sheer face of the mountain requires specialized climbing equipment.

Expressions with similar meanings to “steepest”

Similar to steepest, this emphasizes the extreme steepness or sheerness

Example

The most precipitous slope is only attempted by the most skilled skiers.

Used to describe the highest level of sudden or sharp increase in steepness

Example

The most abrupt descent on the mountain bike trail is not for the faint-hearted.

Used to describe the highest level of vertical or perpendicular steepness

Example

The most sheer cliff face is a challenge even for experienced rock climbers.

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.
  • 1Hiking and Mountaineering

    The trail becomes steeper as you ascend.

    The trail becomes steeper as you ascend.

  • 2Architecture and Construction

    The staircase has the steepest incline in the building.

    The staircase has the steepest incline in the building.

  • 3Skiing and Snowboarding

    The black diamond run is the steepest slope on the mountain.

    The black diamond run is the steepest slope on the mountain.

  • 4Geography and Landscapes

    The valley is surrounded by steeper hills on all sides.

    The valley is surrounded by steeper hills on all sides.

  • 5Waterfalls and Cliffs

    The waterfall has the steepest drop in the region.

    The waterfall has the steepest drop in the region.

Related idioms and phrases

Climb a mountain

To undertake a challenging task or overcome a difficult obstacle.

Example

Starting a new business can feel like trying to climb a mountain.

Up the ante

To increase the level of difficulty, risk, or stakes in a situation.

Example

In order to attract more customers, the company decided to up the ante by offering additional benefits.

Take the high road

To choose the morally right or honorable course of action.

Example

Even though he was tempted to seek revenge, he decided to take the high road and forgive his enemy.

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