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 “safest”?

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

Example

Wearing a seatbelt is safer than not wearing one.

Example

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

What is the superlative form of “safest”?

The superlative form of “safest” 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

The new alarm system makes the house more secure.

Indicates a lower level of potential danger or harm

Example

Investing in bonds is generally less risky than investing in stocks.

Emphasizes the idea of being shielded or guarded from harm

Example

The fortified castle provided a more protected environment for the royal family.

Expressions with similar meanings to “safest”

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

Example

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

Indicates the lowest level of potential danger or harm

Example

Putting money in a savings account is often seen as the least risky investment.

Emphasizes the idea of being extremely well-guarded or shielded from harm

Example

The president's residence is one of the best protected buildings in the world.

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.
  • 1Travel

    Flying is generally considered safer than driving.

    Flying is generally considered safer than driving.

  • 2Health

    Eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly can lead to a safer and healthier lifestyle.

    Eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly can lead to a safer and healthier lifestyle.

  • 3Workplace

    Wearing protective gear is essential for ensuring a safer work environment.

    Wearing protective gear is essential for ensuring a safer work environment.

  • 4Childcare

    Parents often choose daycare centers that provide the safest environment for their children.

    Parents often choose daycare centers that provide the safest environment for their children.

  • 5Technology

    Using strong passwords and encryption methods can make online transactions safer.

    Using strong passwords and encryption methods can make online transactions safer.

Related idioms and phrases

Better safe than sorry

It's better to take precautions and be cautious, even if it seems unnecessary, to avoid any potential harm or regret later.

Example

He always double-checks his work to make sure there are no mistakes. Better safe than sorry.

Play it safe

To act cautiously and avoid taking unnecessary risks.

Example

Instead of trying a new, risky investment, he decided to play it safe and stick with a more stable option.

Safety in numbers

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

Example

They decided to walk together at night because they believed in safety in numbers.

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