Learn how to use the comparative “plainer” and superlative “plainest” 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 “plainest”?

The comparative form of “plainest” is “plainer”.

Example

She chose the plainer dress for the party.

Example

His writing style is plainer than hers.

What is the superlative form of “plainest”?

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

Example

Among all the paintings, the abstract art piece is the plainest.

Example

Her outfit was the plainest at the party.

Why is this expression not used with most, more?

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

Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?

Plain does not have an irregular comparative or superlative form. It follows the standard pattern for forming comparatives and superlatives. So, to summarize: Comparative: PlainPlainer Superlative: PlainPlainest

Expressions with similar meanings to “plainer”

Used to describe something that is easier to understand or less complex

Example

The simpler explanation is often the correct one.

A slightly formal way of expressing something that is less elaborate or intricate

Example

The more basic version of the software has fewer features.

Expressions with similar meanings to “plainest”

Similar to plainest, this emphasizes something that is the least complicated or adorned

Example

The simplest solution is often the most effective.

A slightly formal way of expressing something that is the least elaborate or intricate

Example

The most basic level of understanding is required for this course.

Using than with comparative “plainer”

When using the comparative form plainer to compare two things, you would use than to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "Her dress is plainer than mine." Here, than is used to show that the level of plainness in 'her' dress is greater than the level of plainness in 'mine'.

How can I use this expression in context?

“plainer” and “plainest” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.
  • 1Fashion

    She prefers plainer outfits without any embellishments.

    She prefers plainer outfits without any embellishments.

  • 2Design

    The minimalist style focuses on clean lines and plainest aesthetics.

    The minimalist style focuses on clean lines and plainest aesthetics.

  • 3Writing

    He used a plainer language to make his point clear.

    He used a plainer language to make his point clear.

  • 4Decor

    The room was decorated in the plainest manner, with minimal furniture and decorations.

    The room was decorated in the plainest manner, with minimal furniture and decorations.

  • 5Art

    The artist's work is known for its plainest composition and lack of details.

    The artist's work is known for its plainest composition and lack of details.

Related idioms and phrases

Plain as day

Very clear or obvious.

Example

The evidence against him was plain as day.

Plain sailing

To proceed smoothly and easily without any difficulties.

Example

After the initial challenges, the project was plain sailing.

Plain Jane

Used to describe someone who is ordinary or unremarkable in appearance.

Example

She doesn't wear flashy clothes or makeup, she's just a plain Jane.

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