Learn how to use the comparative “dearer” and superlative “dearest” 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 “dearest”?

The comparative form of “dearest” is “dearer”.

Example

My sister is dearer to me than anyone else.

Example

Her friendship is dearer to me than any material possession.

What is the superlative form of “dearest”?

The superlative form of “dearest” is “dearest”.

Example

Among all my friends, she is my dearest.

Example

Her love for her family is the dearest thing to her heart.

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 commonly 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: DearDearer Superlative: DearDearest

Expressions with similar meanings to “dearer”

Used to describe someone or something that is loved more than others

Example

Her dog is her more beloved companion.

Used to indicate a stronger emotional connection

Example

He is closer to his best friend than anyone else.

Used to express a higher level of value and importance

Example

Her grandmother's necklace is her more cherished possession.

Expressions with similar meanings to “dearest”

Similar to dearest, this emphasizes the highest level of love and affection

Example

Her husband is her most beloved person in the world.

Used to describe the strongest emotional bond

Example

Her sister is her closest confidante.

Used to express the highest level of value and importance

Example

Her childhood memories are her most cherished possessions.

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: "She is dearer to me than anyone else." Here, than is used to show that the level of 'dearness' towards 'her' is greater than towards anyone else.

How can I use this expression in context?

“dearer” and “dearest” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.
  • 1Relationships

    His wife is dearer to him than anyone else.

    His wife is dearer to him than anyone else.

  • 2Possessions

    Her grandmother's ring is her dearest possession.

    Her grandmother's ring is her dearest possession.

  • 3Memories

    The photographs from their wedding are their dearest memories.

    The photographs from their wedding are their dearest memories.

  • 4Feelings

    Her happiness is dearer to her than any material wealth.

    Her happiness is dearer to her than any material wealth.

  • 5Achievements

    Winning the championship was his dearest accomplishment.

    Winning the championship was his dearest accomplishment.

Related idioms and phrases

Near and dear

Something or someone that is very important and close to one's heart.

Example

Her family is near and dear to her.

Hold dear

To value or cherish something or someone deeply.

Example

She holds her family dear and always puts them first.

Heart's desire

Something that one strongly wishes for or desires.

Example

Becoming a successful writer was always her heart's desire.

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