Learn how to use the comparative “softer” and superlative “softest” with example sentences and differences.

What is the comparative form of “softest”?

The comparative form of “softest” 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 “softest”?

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

Example

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

Example

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

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: Soft → Softer Superlative: Soft → Softest

Expressions with similar meanings to “softer”

gentler

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.

smoother

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

Example

The lotion made her skin feel smoother and more supple.

more mellow

A slightly informal way of expressing increased softness or mellowness

Example

The more mellow lighting in the room created a cozy atmosphere.

Expressions with similar meanings to “softest”

gentlest

Similar to softest, this emphasizes both softness and delicacy

Example

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

smoothest

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

Example

The cream left her hands feeling the smoothest they had ever been.

most mellow

A slightly informal way of expressing the highest level of softness or mellowness

Example

The most mellow music played softly in the background, creating a relaxing ambiance.

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 new blanket is softer than the old one." Here, than is used to show that the softness of the new blanket is greater than the softness of the old one.

How can I use this expression in context?

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

• 1. Materials

  The velvet fabric is softer than the denim fabric.

  The velvet fabric is softer than the denim fabric.

• 2. Textures

  The baby's skin is softest to the touch.

  The baby's skin is softest to the touch.

• 3. Sounds

  The lullaby had a softer melody than the upbeat song.

  The lullaby had a softer melody than the upbeat song.

• 4. Colors

  The pastel shades are considered softer than the bold colors.

  The pastel shades are considered softer than the bold colors.

• 5. Emotions

  She spoke in a softer tone to convey her sympathy.

  She spoke in a softer tone to convey her sympathy.

Related idioms and phrases

As soft as a feather

Describing something that is extremely soft or gentle.

Example

The kitten's fur was as soft as a feather.

Soft touch

Someone who is gentle and understanding.

Example

She's 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 puppies and can't resist playing with them.