What is the comparative form of “harshest”?
The comparative form of “harshest” is “harsher”.Example
The teacher's criticism was harsher than expected.
Example
The winter weather in this region is harsher than in the south.
What is the superlative form of “harshest”?
The superlative form of “harshest” is “harshest”.Example
Among all the judges, he is known for giving the harshest sentences.
Example
The desert climate is known for being one of the harshest environments on Earth.
Why is this expression not used with most, more?
'Most' and 'more' are generally not used with harsh, harsher, and harshest. They’re considered regular comparatives and superlatives. The forms 'more harsh' and 'most harsh' are not used because they sound awkward. Instead, harsher and harshest are the correct and preferred forms to use.
Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?
Harsh does not have an irregular comparative or superlative form. It follows the standard pattern for forming comparatives and superlatives. So, to summarize: Comparative: Harsh → Harsher Superlative: Harsh → Harshest
Expressions with similar meanings to “harsher”
Example
The punishment for the crime was more severe than anticipated.
Used to indicate a stricter or more uncompromising approach
Example
The coach's training methods became sterner as the competition approached.
Used to describe something that is more harsh or unpleasant in nature
Example
The waves in the ocean were rougher during the storm.
Expressions with similar meanings to “harshest”
Example
The hurricane caused the most severe damage in coastal areas.
sternest
Used to describe the strictest or most uncompromising approach
Example
The principal's disciplinary actions were considered the sternest in the school.
Used to describe the harshest or most unpleasant conditions
Example
The terrain in the mountain range was considered the roughest for hiking.
Using than with comparative “harsher”
When using the comparative form harsher to compare two things, you would use than to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "His criticism was harsher than hers." Here, than is used to show that the intensity of 'his' criticism is greater than the intensity of her criticism.
How can I use this expression in context?
“harsher” and “harshest” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.- 1Weather
The winter in this region is harsher than in the south.
The winter in this region is harsher than in the south.
- 2Punishments
The judge gave him the harshest sentence for his crime.
The judge gave him the harshest sentence for his crime.
- 3Criticism
Her feedback was harsher than expected.
Her feedback was harsher than expected.
- 4Environments
The desert is known for being one of the harshest environments on Earth.
The desert is known for being one of the harshest environments on Earth.
- 5Discipline
The coach's training methods became harsher as the competition approached.
The coach's training methods became harsher as the competition approached.
Related idioms and phrases
Bite the bullet
To endure a difficult or unpleasant situation with courage and determination.
Example
He had to bite the bullet and face the consequences of his actions.
Tough love
Showing affection or concern by being strict or demanding.
Example
The parent used tough love to teach their child a valuable lesson.
Take the rough with the smooth
To accept both the good and bad aspects of a situation.
Example
In any relationship, you have to take the rough with the smooth.
