Learn how to use the comparative “deadlier” and superlative “deadliest” with example sentences and differences.

What is the comparative form of “deadlier”?

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

Example

The venom of the black mamba snake is deadlier than that of the cobra.

Example

The new strain of the virus is deadlier than the previous one.

What is the superlative form of “deadlier”?

The superlative form of “deadlier” is “deadliest”.

Example

Among all the snakes, the inland taipan has the deadliest venom.

Example

The hurricane was declared the deadliest in recorded history.

Why is this expression not used with most, more?

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

Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?

Deadly does not have an irregular comparative or superlative form. It follows the standard pattern for forming comparatives and superlatives. So, to summarize: Comparative: Deadly → Deadlier Superlative: Deadly → Deadliest

Expressions with similar meanings to “deadlier”

more lethal

Used to describe something that is more likely to cause death

Example

The new drug is more lethal than the previous one.

more dangerous

Used to indicate something that poses a greater risk or threat

Example

The storm became more dangerous as it intensified.

more harmful

A general term for something that causes more harm or damage

Example

The pollution in the city is more harmful than in the rural areas.

Expressions with similar meanings to “deadliest”

most lethal

Similar to deadliest, this emphasizes the highest level of likelihood to cause death

Example

The new virus strain is the most lethal one discovered so far.

most dangerous

Used to describe the highest level of risk or threat

Example

The volcano is considered the most dangerous in the region.

most harmful

A general term for the highest level of harm or damage

Example

The chemical spill resulted in the most harmful environmental impact.

Using than with comparative “deadlier”

When using the comparative form deadlier to compare two things, you would use than to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "The new virus strain is deadlier than the previous one." Here, than is used to show that the level of deadliness of the new virus strain is greater than that of the previous one.

How can I use this expression in context?

“deadlier” and “deadliest” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.

• 1. Weapons

  The new missile is deadlier than its predecessor.

  The new missile is deadlier than its predecessor.

• 2. Diseases

  The new strain of the virus is deadlier than the original one.

  The new strain of the virus is deadlier than the original one.

• 3. Animals

  The tiger's bite is deadlier than the lion's.

  The tiger's bite is deadlier than the lion's.

• 4. Natural Disasters

  The earthquake was one of the deadliest in history.

  The earthquake was one of the deadliest in history.

• 5. Substances

  The new chemical compound is deadlier than the previous one.

  The new chemical compound is deadlier than the previous one.

Related idioms and phrases

Kill two birds with one stone

To accomplish two tasks with a single action.

Example

By combining the meeting with a team-building activity, they were able to kill two birds with one stone.

A matter of life and death

A situation that is extremely serious and could result in someone's life being at risk.

Example

The doctors worked quickly to save the patient's life; it was a matter of life and death.

Play with fire

To engage in a risky or dangerous activity.

Example

If you continue to ignore safety precautions, you're playing with fire and putting yourself at risk.