Learn how to use the comparative “worse” and superlative “worst” 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 “subpar”?

The comparative form of “subpar” is “worse”.

Example

His performance today is worse than yesterday.

Example

The second movie in the series is worse than the first.

What is the superlative form of “subpar”?

The superlative form of “subpar” is “worst”.

Example

Among all the options, this is the worst solution.

Example

He is considered the worst player on the team.

Why is this expression not used with most, more?

"Most" and "more" are not used with "subpar," "worse," and "worst." Instead, "worse" and "worst" are the appropriate comparatives and superlatives for "subpar." Using "most subpar" or "more subpar" would be grammatically incorrect.

Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?

"Subpar" has a regular comparative and superlative form. It follows the pattern: - Comparative form: Subpar → Worse - Superlative form: Subpar → Worst

Expressions with similar meanings to “worse”

Used to describe something of lower quality or excellence.

Example

The quality of the product is clearly inferior to its competitors.

Used to indicate that something has become less strong or effective.

Example

The team's performance in the second half was weaker than in the first half.

Used to describe something that does not meet the expected quality or standard.

Example

The substandard materials used in construction resulted in numerous issues.

Expressions with similar meanings to “worst”

Used to describe something of the lowest quality or excellence.

Example

The lowest score in the competition was achieved by the inexperienced participant.

Used to indicate the least favorable or efficient option.

Example

The poorest choice for this task is to use outdated software.

Using than with comparative “worse”

When using the comparative form "worse" to compare two things, you would use "than" to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "His performance today is worse than yesterday." Here, "than" is used to show that the quality of his performance today is lower than the quality of his performance "yesterday."

How can I use this expression in context?

“worse” and “worst” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.
  • 1Performance

    Her grades are worse than last semester.

    Her grades are worse than last semester.

  • 2Options

    This alternative is worse for our budget.

    This alternative is worse for our budget.

  • 3Choices

    Out of all the designs, this one is the worst.

    Out of all the designs, this one is the worst.

  • 4Outcomes

    The worst-case scenario would be a complete failure.

    The worst-case scenario would be a complete failure.

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