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

What is the comparative form of “deadly”?

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

Example

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

Example

The second wave of the virus is proving to be deadlier than the first.

What is the superlative form of “deadly”?

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

Example

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

Example

The hurricane was one of the deadliest natural disasters in 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 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 strain of the virus is more lethal than the previous one.

more dangerous

Used to indicate something that poses a greater risk or harm

Example

The storm became more dangerous as it intensified.

more deadly

Similar to deadlier, this emphasizes the potential for causing death

Example

The poison in this plant is more deadly than any other known toxin.

Expressions with similar meanings to “deadliest”

most lethal

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

Example

The virus mutation is the most lethal form we have encountered so far.

most dangerous

Used to describe the highest level of risk or harm

Example

The mountain peak is considered the most dangerous to climb.

most deadly

Similar to deadliest, this emphasizes the highest potential for causing death

Example

The combination of these two chemicals is the most deadly mixture known to man.

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 second wave of the virus is deadlier than the first." Here, than is used to show that the level of deadliness of the second wave is greater than that of the first wave.

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 previous one.

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

• 3. Natural Disasters

  The hurricane was one of the deadliest natural disasters in history.

  The hurricane was one of the deadliest natural disasters in history.

• 4. Animals

  The inland taipan has the deadliest venom among all snakes.

  The inland taipan has the deadliest venom among all snakes.

• 5. Accidents

  The car crash was one of the deadliest accidents on record.

  The car crash was one of the deadliest accidents on record.

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, we were able to kill two birds with one stone.

Drop like flies

To fall down or die in large numbers.

Example

After being exposed to the toxic gas, the insects dropped like flies.

Play with fire

To engage in a risky or dangerous activity.

Example

If you continue to ignore safety protocols, you're playing with fire.