Learn how to use the comparative “tardier” and superlative “tardiest” with example sentences and differences.

What is the comparative form of “tardiest”?

The comparative form of “tardiest” is “tardier”.

Example

He arrived tardier than everyone else to the meeting.

Example

She is always tardier than her friends when it comes to getting ready.

What is the superlative form of “tardiest”?

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

Example

Out of all the students, he is always the tardiest to class.

Example

She holds the record for being the tardiest employee in the company.

Why is this expression not used with most, more?

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

Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?

Tardy does not have an irregular comparative or superlative form. It follows the standard pattern for forming comparatives and superlatives. So, to summarize: Comparative: Tardy → Tardier Superlative: Tardy → Tardiest

Expressions with similar meanings to “tardier”

later

Used to describe something or someone that arrives or happens at a later time

Example

He arrived later than expected due to traffic.

more delayed

A slightly formal way of expressing increased lateness

Example

The train was more delayed than usual due to maintenance work.

Expressions with similar meanings to “tardiest”

latest

Similar to tardiest, this emphasizes being the last or most delayed

Example

He is always the latest to arrive at parties.

most delayed

A slightly formal way of expressing the highest level of lateness

Example

The flight had the most delayed departure time of the day.

Using than with comparative “tardier”

When using the comparative form tardier to compare two things, you would use than to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "He arrived later than his colleagues." Here, than is used to show that the arrival time of 'he' is later than the arrival time of his colleagues.

How can I use this expression in context?

“tardier” and “tardiest” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.

• 1. Meetings

  He is always tardier than everyone else to the meetings.

  He is always tardier than everyone else to the meetings.

• 2. Appointments

  She is consistently tardier than her friends when it comes to appointments.

  She is consistently tardier than her friends when it comes to appointments.

• 3. Flights

  The last flight of the day is usually the tardiest.

  The last flight of the day is usually the tardiest.

• 4. Trains

  The train from the neighboring city is often tardier than the local trains.

  The train from the neighboring city is often tardier than the local trains.

• 5. Work

  He holds the record for being the tardiest employee in the company.

  He holds the record for being the tardiest employee in the company.