Learn how to use the comparative “safer” and superlative “safest” with example sentences and differences.

What is the comparative form of “safer”?

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

Example

Wearing a seatbelt is safer than not wearing one.

Example

Living in a gated community is considered safer than living in an open neighborhood.

What is the superlative form of “safer”?

The superlative form of “safer” 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: Safe → Safer Superlative: Safe → Safest

Expressions with similar meanings to “safer”

more secure

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

Example

Investing in a home security system can make your house more secure.

less risky

Used to indicate a lower level of danger or potential harm

Example

Taking the highway is less risky than driving on back roads at night.

more protected

Used to emphasize the level of safety or security provided

Example

Wearing a helmet while riding a bike makes you more protected.

Expressions with similar meanings to “safest”

most secure

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

Example

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

least risky

Used to describe the lowest level of danger or potential harm

Example

Investing in government bonds is considered least risky.

most protected

Used to emphasize the highest level of safety or security provided

Example

The reinforced bunker is the most protected area in the facility.

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 neighborhood is safer than the one I used to live in." Here, than is used to show that the level of safety in 'this neighborhood' is greater than the level of safety in 'the one I used to live in'.

How can I use this expression in context?

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

• 1. Transportation

  Flying is statistically safer than driving.

  Flying is statistically safer than driving.

• 2. Health

  Eating organic food is believed to be safer for your health.

  Eating organic food is believed to be safer for your health.

• 3. Workplace

  Wearing protective gear makes the job safer.

  Wearing protective gear makes the job safer.

• 4. Technology

  Using a password manager can make your online accounts safer.

  Using a password manager can make your online accounts safer.

• 5. Travel

  Staying in a reputable hotel is usually safer than renting a vacation home from an unknown source.

  Staying in a reputable hotel is usually safer than renting a vacation home from an unknown source.

Related idioms and phrases

Better safe than sorry

It's better to take precautions and be safe rather than taking risks and regretting it later.

Example

He always wears a helmet when riding his bike. Better safe than sorry.

Play it safe

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

Example

Instead of trying a new restaurant, she decided to play it safe and go to her favorite place.

Safety in numbers

The idea that being part of a larger group provides more protection or security.

Example

They decided to walk together as a group, believing that there is safety in numbers.