Learn how to use the comparative “politer” and superlative “politest” 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 “politest”?

The comparative form of “politest” is “politer”.

Example

He is politer than his brother.

Example

She spoke politer to the customer than her colleague did.

What is the superlative form of “politest”?

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

Example

Among all the guests, she is the politest.

Example

The receptionist at the hotel is known for being the politest person you'll ever meet.

Why is this expression not used with most, more?

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

Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?

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

Expressions with similar meanings to “politer”

Used to describe someone who is more polite and considerate in their behavior

Example

The more courteous gentleman held the door open for the elderly woman.

more well-mannered

Used to describe someone who has better manners and is more polite

Example

The more well-mannered child said 'please' and 'thank you' without being prompted.

Used to describe someone who shows more respect towards others

Example

The more respectful student always listens attentively to the teacher.

Expressions with similar meanings to “politest”

Similar to politest, this emphasizes being the most polite and considerate

Example

The most courteous employee always greets customers with a smile.

most well-mannered

Similar to politest, this emphasizes having the best manners and being the most polite

Example

The most well-mannered child always says 'please' and 'thank you' without fail.

Similar to politest, this emphasizes showing the highest level of respect towards others

Example

The most respectful student always addresses the teacher as 'sir' or 'ma'am'.

Using than with comparative “politer”

When using the comparative form politer to compare two things, you would use than to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "He is politer than his brother." Here, than is used to show that the level of politeness of 'he' is greater than the level of politeness of his brother.

How can I use this expression in context?

“politer” and “politest” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.
  • 1Interactions

    She spoke politer to the customer than her colleague did.

    She spoke politer to the customer than her colleague did.

  • 2Etiquette

    He followed the rules of etiquette politely and was considered the politest guest.

    He followed the rules of etiquette politely and was considered the politest guest.

  • 3Customer Service

    The receptionist at the hotel is known for being the politest person you'll ever meet.

    The receptionist at the hotel is known for being the politest person you'll ever meet.

  • 4Formal Situations

    He addressed the judge politer than the other lawyers did.

    He addressed the judge politer than the other lawyers did.

  • 5Social Gatherings

    Among all the guests, she is the politest.

    Among all the guests, she is the politest.

Related idioms and phrases

Mind your Ps and Qs

To be careful about one's behavior and manners

Example

When visiting a foreign country, it's important to mind your Ps and Qs to show respect for their customs.

Put on a good front

To behave politely and present oneself in a positive manner

Example

Even though she was feeling nervous, she managed to put on a good front and greet everyone with a smile.

Have a way with words

To have the ability to speak politely and eloquently

Example

He always knows the right thing to say and has a real way with words.

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