Learn how to use the comparative “slier” and superlative “sliest” 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 “sliest”?

The comparative form of “sliest” is “slier”.

Example

The fox is slier than the rabbit.

Example

He came up with a slier plan to outsmart his opponents.

What is the superlative form of “sliest”?

The superlative form of “sliest” is “sliest”.

Example

Among all the animals, the snake is the sliest.

Example

He is known for being the sliest person in the room.

Why is this expression not used with most, more?

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

Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?

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

Expressions with similar meanings to “slier”

cunninger

Used to describe someone or something that is more clever or deceitful

Example

The cunninger cat always manages to catch the mice.

Similar to slier, this emphasizes the use of cunning and deception

Example

The thief devised a craftier scheme to steal the valuable painting.

A slightly formal way of expressing increased cunning or trickery

Example

The criminal's more devious tactics made it difficult for the police to catch him.

Expressions with similar meanings to “sliest”

Similar to sliest, this emphasizes the highest level of cleverness or deceitfulness

Example

The cunningest con artist was able to swindle millions of dollars from unsuspecting victims.

Used to describe the highest level of cunning and deception

Example

The craftiest spy was able to infiltrate the enemy's headquarters without being detected.

A slightly formal way of expressing the highest level of cunning or trickery

Example

The criminal's most devious plan involved an elaborate web of lies and manipulation.

Using than with comparative “slier”

When using the comparative form slier to compare two things, you would use than to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "He is slier than his brother." Here, than is used to show that the level of 'his' slyness is greater than the level of his brother's slyness.

How can I use this expression in context?

“slier” and “sliest” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.
  • 1Animals

    The fox is slier than the rabbit.

    The fox is slier than the rabbit.

  • 2People

    He is known for being the sliest person in the room.

    He is known for being the sliest person in the room.

  • 3Plans or Strategies

    He came up with a slier plan to outsmart his opponents.

    He came up with a slier plan to outsmart his opponents.

  • 4Criminal Activities

    The thief devised a craftier scheme to steal the valuable painting.

    The thief devised a craftier scheme to steal the valuable painting.

  • 5Intellectual Abilities

    The cunningest con artist was able to swindle millions of dollars from unsuspecting victims.

    The cunningest con artist was able to swindle millions of dollars from unsuspecting victims.

Related idioms and phrases

As sly as a fox

To be very cunning or deceitful.

Example

He managed to escape from the police by being as sly as a fox.

Play both sides against the middle

To manipulate or deceive multiple parties for personal gain.

Example

The politician was known for playing both sides against the middle to maintain power.

Pull the wool over someone's eyes

To deceive or trick someone.

Example

The scammer tried to pull the wool over the old man's eyes by pretending to be a charity worker.

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