Learn how to use the comparative “rarer” and superlative “rarest” with example sentences and differences.

📝

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 “raring”?

The comparative form of “raring” is “rarer”.

Example

Finding a four-leaf clover is rarer than finding a regular clover.

Example

Her talent for singing is rarer than her talent for dancing.

What is the superlative form of “raring”?

The superlative form of “raring” is “rarest”.

Example

Among all the gemstones, diamonds are considered the rarest.

Example

Her collection of antique coins is known for containing some of the rarest specimens.

Why is this expression not used with most, more?

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

Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?

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

Expressions with similar meanings to “rarer”

Used to describe something that is less common or less frequently encountered

Example

Encountering a double rainbow is more uncommon than seeing a single rainbow.

Used to indicate something that occurs less often or with less regularity

Example

Visiting the beach during winter is less frequent than going in the summer.

Used to describe something that is not as characteristic or usual

Example

His behavior was less typical of him, as he is usually very reserved.

Expressions with similar meanings to “rarest”

Similar to rarest, this emphasizes something that is extremely uncommon or rarely found

Example

Spotting a white peacock is most uncommon in the wild.

Used to describe the lowest level of frequency or occurrence

Example

The comet's appearance is least frequent and can only be observed once every few decades.

Used to describe something that is the least characteristic or usual

Example

His behavior during the party was least typical of him, as he is usually very outgoing.

Using than with comparative “rarer”

When using the comparative form rarer to compare two things, you would use than to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "Finding a four-leaf clover is rarer than finding a regular clover." Here, than is used to show that the rarity of finding a four-leaf clover is greater than the rarity of finding a regular clover.

How can I use this expression in context?

“rarer” and “rarest” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.
  • 1Natural Phenomena

    Seeing a shooting star is rarer than seeing a rainbow.

    Seeing a shooting star is rarer than seeing a rainbow.

  • 2Collectibles

    The limited edition stamp is one of the rarest in the collection.

    The limited edition stamp is one of the rarest in the collection.

  • 3Skills or Talents

    His ability to solve complex math problems is rarer than his ability to play the piano.

    His ability to solve complex math problems is rarer than his ability to play the piano.

  • 4Events or Occurrences

    Experiencing a solar eclipse is one of the rarest events in a lifetime.

    Experiencing a solar eclipse is one of the rarest events in a lifetime.

  • 5Species or Varieties

    The endangered species is one of the rarest in the world.

    The endangered species is one of the rarest in the world.

This content was generated with the assistance of AI technology based on RedKiwi's unique learning data. By utilizing automated AI content, we can quickly deliver a wide range of highly accurate content to users. Experience the benefits of AI by having your questions answered and receiving reliable information!