Learn how to use the comparative “taller” and superlative “tallest” 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 “tall”?

The comparative form of “tall” is “taller”.

Example

John is taller than his brother.

Example

The tree grew taller after the rain.

What is the superlative form of “tall”?

The superlative form of “tall” is “tallest”.

Example

Among all the students, Mark is the tallest.

Example

The giraffe is known for being the tallest land animal.

Why is this expression not used with most, more?

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

Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?

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

Expressions with similar meanings to “taller”

Used to describe something that has a greater vertical measurement

Example

The mountain peak is higher than the surrounding hills.

A slightly formal way of expressing increased height

Example

The more elevated platform provided a better view of the stage.

Used to describe something that has a greater length or vertical extent

Example

The skyscraper is longer than any other building in the city.

Expressions with similar meanings to “tallest”

Similar to tallest, this emphasizes both height and elevation

Example

Mount Everest is the highest peak in the world.

A slightly formal way of expressing the highest level of height

Example

The observation deck provides the most elevated view of the city.

Used to describe something that has the greatest length or vertical extent

Example

The Burj Khalifa is the longest skyscraper in the world.

Using than with comparative “taller”

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

How can I use this expression in context?

“taller” and “tallest” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.
  • 1People

    She is taller than her sister.

    She is taller than her sister.

  • 2Buildings

    The skyscraper is taller than the neighboring buildings.

    The skyscraper is taller than the neighboring buildings.

  • 3Nature

    The redwood tree is the tallest tree in the forest.

    The redwood tree is the tallest tree in the forest.

  • 4Animals

    The giraffe is the tallest land animal.

    The giraffe is the tallest land animal.

  • 5Objects

    The ladder is taller than the fence.

    The ladder is taller than the fence.

Related idioms and phrases

Stand head and shoulders above

To be significantly taller or better than others

Example

Her talent and skills make her stand head and shoulders above the rest of the team.

Look up to someone

To admire and respect someone

Example

He has always looked up to his older brother as a role model.

Reach for the stars

To set ambitious goals and strive for success

Example

She has big dreams and is determined to reach for the stars.

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