Learn how to use the comparative “harder” and superlative “hardest” 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 “hardhanded”?

The comparative form of “hardhanded” is “harder”.

Example

He hit the ball harder than before.

Example

She works harder than anyone else in the office.

What is the superlative form of “hardhanded”?

The superlative form of “hardhanded” is “hardest”.

Example

Out of all the workers, he is the hardest working.

Example

She is considered the hardest hitter on the team.

Why is this expression not used with most, more?

"Most" and "more" are not used with "hard," "harder," and "hardest." Instead, "harder" and "hardest" are the appropriate comparatives and superlatives for "hard." Using "most hard" or "more hard" would be grammatically incorrect.

Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?

"Hard" has an irregular comparative and superlative form. It follows the pattern: - Comparative form: Hard → Harder - Superlative form: Hard → Hardest

Expressions with similar meanings to “harder”

Used to describe something that is more solid or resistant.

Example

The new mattress is firmer than the old one.

Used to indicate greater force or intensity.

Example

He threw the ball with a stronger arm.

Used to describe something that is more durable or resilient.

Example

The new shoes are tougher than the old ones.

Expressions with similar meanings to “hardest”

Used to describe something that is the most solid or resistant.

Example

The concrete wall is the firmest structure in the building.

Used to indicate the greatest force or intensity.

Example

He has the strongest grip among all the athletes.

Used to describe something that is the most durable or resilient.

Example

The military-grade backpack is the toughest one available.

Using than with comparative “harder”

When using the comparative form "harder" to compare two things, you would use "than" to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "He hit the ball harder than before." Here, "than" is used to show that the force with which he hit the ball is greater than the force with which he hit it "before."

How can I use this expression in context?

“harder” and “hardest” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.
  • 1Physical Strength

    He lifted the weight harder than anyone else.

    He lifted the weight harder than anyone else.

  • 2Work Ethic

    She works harder than anyone in the company.

    She works harder than anyone in the company.

  • 3Sports

    He is the hardest hitter on the team.

    He is the hardest hitter on the team.

  • 4Challenges

    This is the hardest puzzle I've ever solved.

    This is the hardest puzzle I've ever solved.

Related idioms and phrases

Hard as nails

Very tough or strong.

Example

Despite her age, she is hard as nails and can still lift heavy objects.

Hard pill to swallow

Difficult to accept or come to terms with.

Example

Losing the championship was a hard pill to swallow for the team.

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