What is the comparative form of “dearer”?
The comparative form of “dearer” is “dearer”.Example
The new iPhone is dearer than the previous model.
Example
The price of gas has become dearer in recent months.
What is the superlative form of “dearer”?
The superlative form of “dearer” is “dearest”.Example
Among all the options, this necklace is the dearest to my heart.
Example
The vintage car is considered one of the dearest in the collector's market.
Why is this expression not used with most, more?
'Most' and 'more' are generally not used with dear, dearer, and dearest. They’re considered regular comparatives and superlatives. The forms 'more dear' and 'most dear' are not used because they sound awkward. Instead, dearer and dearest are the correct and preferred forms to use.
Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?
Dear does not have an irregular comparative or superlative form. It follows the standard pattern for forming comparatives and superlatives. So, to summarize: Comparative: Dear → Dearer Superlative: Dear → Dearest
Expressions with similar meanings to “dearer”
Example
The designer handbag is more expensive than the generic brand.
Similar to dearer, this emphasizes the higher cost of something
Example
The organic produce at the farmer's market is usually pricier than at the supermarket.
A slightly formal way of expressing increased cost
Example
The renovations turned out to be costlier than we initially budgeted for.
Expressions with similar meanings to “dearest”
Example
The luxury yacht is the most expensive item on the market.
Used to describe the highest level of cost
Example
The limited edition sneakers are the priciest shoes in the collection.
A slightly formal way of expressing the highest level of cost
Example
The mansion is the costliest property in the neighborhood.
Using than with comparative “dearer”
When using the comparative form dearer to compare two things, you would use than to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "The new laptop is dearer than the old one." Here, than is used to show that the price of the new laptop is higher than the price of the old one.
How can I use this expression in context?
“dearer” and “dearest” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.- 1Consumer Goods
The branded shoes are dearer than the generic ones.
The branded shoes are dearer than the generic ones.
- 2Housing
The beachfront property is the dearest in the area.
The beachfront property is the dearest in the area.
- 3Collectibles
The rare stamp is considered one of the dearest in the philatelic world.
The rare stamp is considered one of the dearest in the philatelic world.
- 4Services
The premium package is dearer but offers more benefits.
The premium package is dearer but offers more benefits.
- 5Sentimental Value
The family heirloom is the dearest possession.
The family heirloom is the dearest possession.
Related idioms and phrases
Cost an arm and a leg
To be very expensive.
Example
The designer dress she bought cost her an arm and a leg.
Worth its weight in gold
To be extremely valuable or useful.
Example
The antique watch was worth its weight in gold.
Break the bank
To spend a large amount of money.
Example
The vacation to Europe broke the bank but was worth it.
