Learn how to use the comparative “drier” and superlative “driest” with example sentences and differences.

📝

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 “dryest”?

The comparative form of “dryest” is “drier”.

Example

The desert is drier than the rainforest.

Example

My clothes are drier after being in the dryer.

What is the superlative form of “dryest”?

The superlative form of “dryest” is “driest”.

Example

The Atacama Desert is considered the driest place on Earth.

Example

After days of no rain, the ground became the driest it had ever been.

Why is this expression not used with most, more?

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

Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?

Dry follows the standard pattern for forming comparatives and superlatives. So, to summarize: Comparative: DryDrier Superlative: DryDriest

Expressions with similar meanings to “drier”

Used to describe a place that lacks moisture or humidity

Example

The Sahara Desert is known for being more arid than any other desert.

Used to indicate a lower level of moisture in the air

Example

The climate in the desert is less humid compared to coastal regions.

Describes something that is extremely dry and in need of moisture

Example

The cracked earth in the drought-stricken region was more parched than ever.

Expressions with similar meanings to “driest”

Used to describe the highest level of dryness in a place

Example

The Death Valley is one of the most arid regions in North America.

Indicates the lowest level of moisture in the air

Example

The desert is the least humid place you can imagine.

Describes something that is extremely dry and in desperate need of moisture

Example

The cracked riverbed was the most parched area in the entire region.

Using than with comparative “drier”

When using the comparative form drier to compare two things, you would use than to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "The desert is drier than the rainforest." Here, than is used to show that the level of dryness in the desert is greater than the level of dryness in the rainforest.

How can I use this expression in context?

“drier” and “driest” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.
  • 1Climate

    The desert has a drier climate than the rainforest.

    The desert has a drier climate than the rainforest.

  • 2Weather

    Today is drier than yesterday, with no rain in sight.

    Today is drier than yesterday, with no rain in sight.

  • 3Food

    The cake turned out drier than expected because I forgot to add enough liquid.

    The cake turned out drier than expected because I forgot to add enough liquid.

  • 4Landscapes

    The desert is known for its driest conditions, with little to no rainfall.

    The desert is known for its driest conditions, with little to no rainfall.

  • 5Humidity

    The air in the desert is drier compared to coastal areas.

    The air in the desert is drier compared to coastal areas.

Related idioms and phrases

As dry as a bone

Describing something that is completely lacking in moisture

Example

After being left in the sun, the clothes were as dry as a bone.

Parched lips

Describing lips that are extremely dry and in need of moisture

Example

She applied lip balm to soothe her parched lips.

Dry spell

A period of time with little or no rainfall

Example

The farmers were worried about their crops during the dry spell.

This content was generated with the assistance of AI technology based on RedKiwi's unique learning data. By utilizing automated AI content, we can quickly deliver a wide range of highly accurate content to users. Experience the benefits of AI by having your questions answered and receiving reliable information!