Learn how to use the comparative “primer” and superlative “primest” 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 “prime”?

The comparative form of “prime” is “primer”.

Example

The second coat of paint provides a primer surface for the final coat.

Example

He needs to do some primer research before starting his project.

What is the superlative form of “prime”?

The superlative form of “prime” is “primest”.

Example

Among all the candidates, she is the primest for the job.

Example

The chef's signature dish is considered the primest on the menu.

Why is this expression not used with most, more?

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

Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?

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

Expressions with similar meanings to “primer”

Used to describe something that comes before or prepares for something else

Example

They conducted a preliminary investigation before launching the full-scale study.

Used to describe something that provides basic information or serves as an introduction

Example

The first chapter of the book is an introductory overview of the topic.

Used to describe something that is done at the beginning or first stage

Example

She made some initial sketches before finalizing her design.

Expressions with similar meanings to “primest”

Similar to primest, this emphasizes the highest level of quality or excellence

Example

Out of all the contestants, he gave the best performance.

Used to describe something that is at the highest position or rank

Example

The company's CEO is the top executive in the organization.

Used to describe something that is of the highest quality or craftsmanship

Example

The jeweler specializes in creating the finest diamond jewelry.

Using than with comparative “primer”

When using the comparative form primer to compare two things, you would use than to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "The second coat of paint provides a primer surface for the final coat." Here, than is used to show that the primer surface is compared to the final coat surface.

How can I use this expression in context?

“primer” and “primest” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.
  • 1Candidates

    Among all the applicants, she is the primest for the job.

    Among all the applicants, she is the primest for the job.

  • 2Dishes

    The chef's signature dish is considered the primest on the menu.

    The chef's signature dish is considered the primest on the menu.

  • 3Quality

    Out of all the options, this is the primest choice.

    Out of all the options, this is the primest choice.

  • 4Craftsmanship

    The jeweler specializes in creating the finest diamond jewelry.

    The jeweler specializes in creating the finest diamond jewelry.

  • 5Research

    He needs to do some primer research before starting his project.

    He needs to do some primer research before starting his project.

Related idioms and phrases

In its prime

At the peak of its condition or performance.

Example

The athlete was in his prime during the championship game.

Prime time

The period of highest television viewership, usually in the evening.

Example

The popular TV show airs during prime time.

Prime the pump

To take action to stimulate or start a process or activity.

Example

The government plans to invest in infrastructure to prime the pump of the economy.

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