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Learn how to use the comparative “coyer” and superlative “coyest” 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 “coy”?

The comparative form of “coy” is “coyer”.

Example

She is coyer than her sister when it comes to expressing her emotions.

Example

He became coyer as the conversation became more personal.

What is the superlative form of “coy”?

The superlative form of “coy” is “coyest”.

Example

Among all the students, she is the coyest when it comes to public speaking.

Example

He is known for being the coyest person in the office.

Why is this expression not used with most, more?

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

Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?

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

Expressions with similar meanings to “coyer”

Used to describe someone who is more reserved or timid in social situations

Example

The shyer child hid behind their parent when meeting new people.

A slightly formal way of expressing someone who is more cautious or restrained in their behavior

Example

He was more reserved in his interactions with strangers.

Used to indicate someone who is less extroverted or sociable

Example

She is less outgoing than her twin sister.

Expressions with similar meanings to “coyest”

Similar to coyest, this emphasizes a high level of timidity or reserve

Example

The shyest student in the class rarely spoke up during discussions.

A slightly formal way of expressing the highest level of caution or restraint

Example

He was considered the most reserved person in the group.

Used to describe someone who is the least extroverted or sociable

Example

Among all the employees, he is the least outgoing.

Using than with comparative “coyer”

When using the comparative form coyer to compare two things, you would use than to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "She is coyer than her sister." Here, than is used to show that the level of 'coyness' in 'she' is greater than the level of 'coyness' in her sister.

How can I use this expression in context?

“coyer” and “coyest” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.
  • 1Social Situations

    He became coyer as the party grew more crowded.

    He became coyer as the party grew more crowded.

  • 2Personal Interactions

    She is coyer when it comes to sharing personal details.

    She is coyer when it comes to sharing personal details.

  • 3Public Speaking

    Among all the students, she is the coyest when it comes to presenting in front of a large audience.

    Among all the students, she is the coyest when it comes to presenting in front of a large audience.

  • 4Workplace

    He is known for being the coyest person in the office during team meetings.

    He is known for being the coyest person in the office during team meetings.

  • 5Dating and Relationships

    She becomes coyer when someone shows interest in her.

    She becomes coyer when someone shows interest in her.

Related idioms and phrases

Play hard to get

To act uninterested or coy in order to make oneself more desirable or to test the other person's interest.

Example

She decided to play hard to get to see if he was really interested in her.

Keep someone at arm's length

To maintain a certain distance or reserve in a relationship, often due to distrust or caution.

Example

After being hurt in the past, she decided to keep him at arm's length and not fully open up to him.

Beat around the bush

To avoid addressing a topic directly or to speak in a vague or evasive manner.

Example

Instead of giving a direct answer, he beat around the bush and avoided the question.

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