Learn how to use the comparative “softer” and superlative “softest” 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 “softbound”?

The comparative form of “softbound” is “softer”.

Example

The pillow is softer than the mattress.

Example

Her voice became softer as she spoke softly.

What is the superlative form of “softbound”?

The superlative form of “softbound” is “softest”.

Example

Among all the blankets, the cashmere blanket is the softest.

Example

The baby's skin is known for being the softest and most delicate.

Why is this expression not used with most, more?

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

Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?

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

Expressions with similar meanings to “softer”

Used to describe something that is softer in a delicate or mild manner

Example

The gentler touch of the fabric felt soothing against her skin.

Used to indicate something that is softer in terms of texture or surface

Example

The lotion made her skin feel smoother and more hydrated.

A slightly formal way of expressing increased softness or flexibility

Example

The more pliable clay was easier to mold into different shapes.

Expressions with similar meanings to “softest”

Similar to softest, this emphasizes both softness and delicacy

Example

Among all the fabrics, silk is considered the gentlest against the skin.

Used to describe the highest level of softness in terms of texture or surface

Example

The moisturizer left her skin feeling the smoothest it had ever been.

A slightly formal way of expressing the highest level of softness or flexibility

Example

The most pliable clay was perfect for intricate sculpting.

Using than with comparative “softer”

When using the comparative form softer to compare two things, you would use than to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "The blanket is softer than the carpet." Here, than is used to show that the softness of the blanket is greater than the softness of the carpet.

How can I use this expression in context?

“softer” and “softest” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.
  • 1Materials

    The velvet fabric is softer than the denim fabric.

    The velvet fabric is softer than the denim fabric.

  • 2Textures

    The baby's skin is softest when it's well moisturized.

    The baby's skin is softest when it's well moisturized.

  • 3Sounds

    The music became softer as the volume was turned down.

    The music became softer as the volume was turned down.

  • 4Speech

    She spoke in a softer tone to convey her sympathy.

    She spoke in a softer tone to convey her sympathy.

  • 5Comfort

    The plush pillow provided the softest support for her head.

    The plush pillow provided the softest support for her head.

Related idioms and phrases

Soft as a feather

Describing something that is extremely soft or gentle.

Example

The baby's skin was soft as a feather.

Soft touch

Someone who is gentle and kind-hearted.

Example

She is known for being a soft touch and always helping others in need.

Soft spot

A strong liking or affection for someone or something.

Example

He has a soft spot for animals and always adopts stray pets.

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