What is the comparative form of “surlier”?
The comparative form of “surlier” is “surlier”.Example
He became surlier as the conversation went on.
Example
She was surlier than usual today.
What is the superlative form of “surlier”?
The superlative form of “surlier” is “surliest”.Example
Out of all the employees, he is the surliest.
Example
She has the reputation for being the surliest person in the office.
Why is this expression not used with most, more?
'Most' and 'more' are generally not used with surly, surlier, and surliest. They’re considered regular comparatives and superlatives. The forms 'more surly' and 'most surly' are not commonly used. Instead, surlier and surliest are the correct and preferred forms to use.
Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?
Surly does not have an irregular comparative or superlative form. It follows the standard pattern for forming comparatives and superlatives. So, to summarize: Comparative: Surly → Surlier Superlative: Surly → Surliest
Expressions with similar meanings to “surlier”
Used to describe someone who is more irritable or easily annoyed
Example
He woke up on the wrong side of the bed and was even grumpier than usual.
Example
Her more sullen demeanor made everyone wonder what was bothering her.
Expressions with similar meanings to “surliest”
Similar to surliest, this emphasizes a high level of irritability or annoyance
Example
Among all the coworkers, he is known as the grumpiest.
Example
Her constant frown and lack of communication made her the most sullen person in the room.
Using than with comparative “surlier”
When using the comparative form surlier to compare two things, you would use than to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "He is surlier than his brother." Here, than is used to show that the level of 'his' surliness is greater than the level of his brother's surliness.
How can I use this expression in context?
“surlier” and “surliest” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.- 1Customer Service
The surlier the customer, the more patience is required.
The surlier the customer, the more patience is required.
- 2Interactions
He became surlier as the argument escalated.
He became surlier as the argument escalated.
- 3Workplace
She has the reputation for being the surliest employee in the company.
She has the reputation for being the surliest employee in the company.
- 4Personal Relationships
His surliest behavior pushed away those who cared about him.
His surliest behavior pushed away those who cared about him.
- 5Character Descriptions
The antagonist in the story was portrayed as the surliest character.
The antagonist in the story was portrayed as the surliest character.
Related idioms and phrases
Grin and bear it
To endure a difficult or unpleasant situation with a smile or positive attitude.
Example
Even though the task was challenging, she decided to grin and bear it.
Have a chip on one's shoulder
To be easily angered or irritated, often due to a perceived grievance or sense of inferiority.
Example
He always seems to have a chip on his shoulder and gets defensive at the slightest criticism.
In a bad mood
To be feeling irritable, unhappy, or angry.
Example
She woke up in a bad mood and didn't want to talk to anyone.
