Learn how to use the comparative “crueller” and superlative “cruelest” 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 “crueller”?

The comparative form of “crueller” is “crueller”.

Example

The dictator's regime became crueller as time went on.

Example

Her words were crueller than any weapon.

What is the superlative form of “crueller”?

The superlative form of “crueller” is “cruelest”.

Example

Among all the villains, the Joker is considered the cruelest.

Example

The warlord was known for his reputation as the cruelest leader in history.

Why is this expression not used with most, more?

'Most' and 'more' are generally not used with cruel, crueller, and cruelest. They’re considered regular comparatives and superlatives. The forms 'more cruel' and 'most cruel' are not used because they sound awkward. Instead, crueller 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: CruelCrueller Superlative: CruelCruelest

Expressions with similar meanings to “crueller”

Used to describe someone who is unkind or malicious

Example

The bully became even meaner after being suspended from school.

Used to indicate a more severe or strict approach

Example

The judge handed down a harsher sentence than expected.

A slightly formal way of expressing increased cruelty or lack of mercy

Example

The mafia boss became more ruthless as he gained power.

Expressions with similar meanings to “cruelest”

Similar to cruelest, this emphasizes a high level of unkindness or malice

Example

The witch in the fairy tale was the meanest character of all.

Used to describe the highest level of severity or strictness

Example

The teacher gave the harshest punishment to the student who cheated.

A slightly formal way of expressing the highest level of cruelty or lack of mercy

Example

The dictator's regime was known as the most ruthless in history.

Using than with comparative “crueller”

When using the comparative form crueller to compare two things, you would use than to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "His punishment was crueller than hers." Here, than is used to show that the level of cruelty in 'his' punishment is greater than the level of cruelty in 'hers'.

How can I use this expression in context?

“crueller” and “cruelest” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.
  • 1Dictatorships

    The new regime was even crueller than the previous one.

    The new regime was even crueller than the previous one.

  • 2Bullying

    The taunts from the bullies became crueller over time.

    The taunts from the bullies became crueller over time.

  • 3War

    The atrocities committed by the enemy were considered the cruelest in history.

    The atrocities committed by the enemy were considered the cruelest in history.

  • 4Competition

    The coach pushed the team to their cruelest limits during training.

    The coach pushed the team to their cruelest limits during training.

  • 5Actions

    His betrayal was the cruelest act she had ever experienced.

    His betrayal was the cruelest act she had ever experienced.

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 any kindness.

Kick someone when they're down

To take advantage of someone who is already in a vulnerable or difficult situation.

Example

Instead of offering support, they kicked him when he was down and made fun of his 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 guy, but he turned out to be a wolf in sheep's clothing.

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