Learn how to use the comparative “more awkward” and superlative “most awkward” 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 “awkwardest”?

The comparative form of “awkwardest” is “more awkward”.

Example

The conversation became more awkward as they ran out of things to say.

Example

His attempt at dancing was more awkward than anyone else's.

What is the superlative form of “awkwardest”?

The superlative form of “awkwardest” is “most awkward”.

Example

The dinner party was the most awkward social gathering I've ever attended.

Example

Their first date was the most awkward encounter they had ever experienced.

Why is this expression not used with most, more?

"Most" and "more" are used with "awkward" to form the comparatives and superlatives. The forms "more awkward" and "most awkward" are commonly used to indicate a higher degree of discomfort or embarrassment.

Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?

"Awkward" follows the regular pattern of using "more" and "most" for forming comparatives and superlatives.

Expressions with similar meanings to “more awkward”

Used to describe something that causes more unease or embarrassment.

Example

The silence in the room grew more uncomfortable with each passing minute.

Used to indicate that something is more humiliating or cringe-worthy.

Example

Her speech was more embarrassing than she had anticipated.

Expressions with similar meanings to “most awkward”

Used to describe something that causes the most unease or embarrassment.

Example

The situation was the most uncomfortable I've ever been in.

Used to indicate that something is the most humiliating or cringe-worthy.

Example

His wardrobe malfunction was the most embarrassing moment of his life.

Using than with comparative “more awkward”

When using the comparative form "more awkward" to compare two things, you would use "than" to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "The conversation became more awkward than anyone expected." Here, "than" is used to show that the level of awkwardness in the conversation was higher than what was anticipated.

How can I use this expression in context?

“more awkward” and “most awkward” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.
  • 1Social Situations

    The interaction with her ex-boyfriend was more awkward than she had imagined.

    The interaction with her ex-boyfriend was more awkward than she had imagined.

  • 2Public Speaking

    His presentation was the most awkward performance of the day.

    His presentation was the most awkward performance of the day.

  • 3Encounters

    Their meeting was more awkward than they had anticipated.

    Their meeting was more awkward than they had anticipated.

  • 4Mistakes

    The typo in the email was the most awkward error she had made.

    The typo in the email was the most awkward error she had made.

Related idioms and phrases

In a pickle

To be in a difficult or awkward situation.

Example

He found himself in a pickle when he forgot his lines on stage.

Between a rock and a hard place

To be faced with two equally difficult or unfavorable options.

Example

She was between a rock and a hard place when deciding which job offer to accept.

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