What is the comparative form of “cruel”?
The comparative form of “cruel” is “crueler”.Example
The dictator's regime became crueler as time went on.
Example
She was crueler to her younger sister than to anyone else.
What is the superlative form of “cruel”?
The superlative form of “cruel” is “cruelest”.Example
Among all the villains, the Joker is considered the cruelest.
Example
The cruelest punishment for the crime was death by hanging.
Why is this expression not used with most, more?
'Most' and 'more' are generally not used with cruel, crueler, and cruelest. They’re considered regular comparatives and superlatives. The forms 'more cruel' and 'most cruel' are not used because they sound awkward. Instead, crueler and cruelest are the correct and preferred forms to use.
Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?
Cruel does not have an irregular comparative or superlative form. It follows the standard pattern for forming comparatives and superlatives. So, to summarize: Comparative: Cruel → Crueler Superlative: Cruel → Cruelest
Expressions with similar meanings to “crueler”
Used to describe someone who is more unkind or malicious
Example
The bully became even meaner after being suspended from school.
Used to indicate someone who is more severe or strict in their actions
Example
The judge handed down a harsher sentence to the repeat offender.
more brutal
A slightly formal way of expressing increased cruelty or violence
Example
The war became more brutal as both sides fought for control.
Expressions with similar meanings to “cruelest”
Similar to cruelest, this emphasizes someone who is extremely unkind or malicious
Example
The meanest character in the story was the wicked stepmother.
Used to describe the highest level of severity or strictness
Example
The harshest punishment for stealing was amputation of the hand.
most brutal
A slightly formal way of expressing the highest level of cruelty or violence
Example
The dictator's regime was known for its most brutal methods of control.
Using than with comparative “crueler”
When using the comparative form crueler to compare two things, you would use than to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "He was crueler to his employees than to his customers." Here, than is used to show that the level of cruelty towards 'his employees' is greater than the level of cruelty towards 'his customers'.
How can I use this expression in context?
“crueler” and “cruelest” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.- 1Dictatorships
The new regime was even crueler than the previous one.
The new regime was even crueler than the previous one.
- 2Sibling Relationships
She was always crueler to her younger brother than to her older sister.
She was always crueler to her younger brother than to her older sister.
- 3Punishments
The judge gave him the cruelest sentence possible.
The judge gave him the cruelest sentence possible.
- 4Villains
The Joker is known for being the cruelest of all Batman's enemies.
The Joker is known for being the cruelest of all Batman's enemies.
- 5Wars
The war in that region was one of the most brutal and cruelest in history.
The war in that region was one of the most brutal and cruelest in history.
Related idioms and phrases
Treat someone like dirt
To treat someone very badly or disrespectfully.
Example
He always treated her like dirt and never showed her any kindness.
Kick someone when they're down
To take advantage of someone's misfortune or vulnerability.
Example
Instead of offering support, he kicked her when she was down and made fun of her failures.
A wolf in sheep's clothing
Someone who appears harmless or friendly but is actually dangerous or deceitful.
Example
He seemed like a nice person, but he turned out to be a wolf in sheep's clothing.
