Learn how to use the comparative “coarser” and superlative “coarsest” 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 “coarsest”?

The comparative form of “coarsest” is “coarser”.

Example

The sandpaper with a lower grit is coarser than the one with a higher grit.

Example

The fabric of this shirt feels coarser than the one I tried on earlier.

What is the superlative form of “coarsest”?

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

Example

Out of all the sandpapers, the one with the lowest grit is the coarsest.

Example

This fabric is known for being the coarsest material.

Why is this expression not used with most, more?

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

Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?

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

Expressions with similar meanings to “coarser”

Used to describe something that has a rougher texture or surface

Example

The rougher side of the sponge is better for scrubbing stubborn stains.

Used to indicate something that has a gritty or grainy texture

Example

The grittier soil is more suitable for growing certain types of plants.

A slightly formal way of expressing a surface that is not smooth or uniform

Example

The more uneven pavement can be challenging to walk on.

Expressions with similar meanings to “coarsest”

Similar to coarsest, this emphasizes a rough texture or surface

Example

Among all the towels, the one made from natural fibers is the roughest.

Used to describe the highest level of grit or graininess

Example

The grittiest sand is used for heavy-duty sanding tasks.

A slightly formal way of expressing the highest level of unevenness

Example

The most uneven terrain is found in mountainous regions.

Using than with comparative “coarser”

When using the comparative form coarser to compare two things, you would use than to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "The sandpaper with a lower grit is coarser than the one with a higher grit." Here, than is used to show that the texture of the sandpaper with lower grit is rougher than the texture of the sandpaper with higher grit.

How can I use this expression in context?

“coarser” and “coarsest” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.
  • 1Materials

    The wool fabric is coarser than the silk fabric.

    The wool fabric is coarser than the silk fabric.

  • 2Food

    The ground pepper adds a coarser texture to the dish.

    The ground pepper adds a coarser texture to the dish.

  • 3Sandpaper

    The lower grit sandpaper provides a coarser finish.

    The lower grit sandpaper provides a coarser finish.

  • 4Hair

    His beard feels coarser than his head hair.

    His beard feels coarser than his head hair.

  • 5Language

    The slang used in that neighborhood is coarser than in other areas.

    The slang used in that neighborhood is coarser than in other areas.

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