Learn how to use the comparative “safer” and superlative “safest” 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 “safe”?

The comparative form of “safe” is “safer”.

Example

Wearing a helmet is safer than riding a bike without one.

Example

Taking the highway is safer than driving on narrow, winding roads.

What is the superlative form of “safe”?

The superlative form of “safe” is “safest”.

Example

Among all the neighborhoods, this one is considered the safest.

Example

The bank vault is known for being the safest place to store valuables.

Why is this expression not used with most, more?

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

Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?

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

Expressions with similar meanings to “safer”

Used to describe something that provides a higher level of safety or protection

Example

Living in a gated community is more secure than living in an open neighborhood.

Used to indicate something that involves a lower level of danger or potential harm

Example

Investing in bonds is less risky than investing in stocks.

Used to describe something that can be trusted or depended on for safety

Example

Using a reputable brand of car seat is more reliable than using a cheap, unknown brand.

Expressions with similar meanings to “safest”

Similar to safest, this emphasizes the highest level of safety or protection

Example

The military base is the most secure location in the country.

Used to describe the lowest level of danger or potential harm

Example

Putting money in a savings account is the least risky investment option.

Used to describe the highest level of trustworthiness or dependability for safety

Example

The fire alarm system in the building is the most reliable in the city.

Using than with comparative “safer”

When using the comparative form safer to compare two things, you would use than to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "This route is safer than the other one." Here, than is used to show that the level of safety of 'this route' is greater than the level of safety of 'the other one'.

How can I use this expression in context?

“safer” and “safest” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.
  • 1Transportation

    Flying is generally considered safer than driving.

    Flying is generally considered safer than driving.

  • 2Security

    Using a password manager is safer than writing down your passwords.

    Using a password manager is safer than writing down your passwords.

  • 3Health

    Eating organic food is believed to be safer than consuming conventionally grown food with pesticides.

    Eating organic food is believed to be safer than consuming conventionally grown food with pesticides.

  • 4Investments

    Putting money in a savings account is considered safer than investing in the stock market.

    Putting money in a savings account is considered safer than investing in the stock market.

  • 5Environments

    Living in a gated community is often seen as safer than living in a high-crime area.

    Living in a gated community is often seen as safer than living in a high-crime area.

Related idioms and phrases

Better safe than sorry

It's wiser to take precautions and be safe rather than take risks and regret it later.

Example

She always wears a seatbelt when driving, believing in the motto better safe than sorry.

Play it safe

To choose the safest or most cautious option in a given situation.

Example

He decided to play it safe and wear a life jacket while kayaking.

In safe hands

To be in the care or protection of someone who is trustworthy and capable.

Example

After the accident, she felt relieved knowing that her children were in safe hands with their grandparents.

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