Learn how to use the comparative “less economical” and superlative “least economical” with example sentences and differences.

What is the comparative form of “noneconomical”?

The comparative form of “noneconomical” is “less economical”.

Example

Driving a car is less economical than taking public transportation.

Example

Eating out at restaurants is less economical than cooking at home.

What is the superlative form of “noneconomical”?

The superlative form of “noneconomical” is “least economical”.

Example

Among all the options, flying first class is the least economical.

Example

Purchasing brand-name products is the least economical choice.

Why is this expression not used with most, more?

"Most" and "more" are used with "economical" to form the comparatives and superlatives. The forms "less economical" and "least economical" are commonly used to indicate a lower degree of cost-effectiveness.

Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?

"Economical" follows the regular pattern of using "more" and "most" for forming comparatives and superlatives.

Expressions with similar meanings to “less economical”

more expensive

Used to describe something that costs more money.

Example

Buying a new car is more expensive than buying a used one.

less cost-effective

Used to indicate that something is not as efficient or beneficial in terms of cost.

Example

Using disposable plastic bottles is less cost-effective than using a reusable water bottle.

Expressions with similar meanings to “least economical”

most expensive

Used to describe something that costs the most money.

Example

Staying at a luxury hotel is the most expensive option.

least cost-effective

Used to indicate that something is the least efficient or beneficial in terms of cost.

Example

Using a private chauffeur is the least cost-effective way to commute.

Using than with comparative “less economical”

When using the comparative form "less economical" to compare two things, you would use "than" to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "Driving a car is less economical than taking public transportation." Here, "than" is used to show that the level of cost-effectiveness in "taking public transportation" is higher than the level of cost-effectiveness in "driving a car."

How can I use this expression in context?

“less economical” and “least economical” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.

• 1. Transportation

  Cycling is less economical than walking.

  Cycling is less economical than walking.

• 2. Housing

  Renting an apartment is the least economical option.

  Renting an apartment is the least economical option.

• 3. Shopping

  Buying in bulk is more economical than buying individual items.

  Buying in bulk is more economical than buying individual items.

• 4. Energy consumption

  Using energy-efficient appliances is the most economical way to reduce electricity bills.

  Using energy-efficient appliances is the most economical way to reduce electricity bills.