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

What is the comparative form of “tardy”?

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

Example

He arrived tardier than everyone else to the meeting.

Example

She is always tardier than her classmates in submitting assignments.

What is the superlative form of “tardy”?

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

Example

Among all the students, he is always the tardiest to arrive at school.

Example

Her submission was the tardiest among all the students.

Why is this expression not used with most, more?

'Most' and 'more' are generally not used with tardy, tardier, 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 after a particular time

Example

He came later than expected to the party.

more delayed

A slightly formal way of expressing increased lateness

Example

The train was more delayed than usual due to the heavy snowfall.

Expressions with similar meanings to “tardiest”

latest

Similar to tardiest, this emphasizes being the last to arrive or happen

Example

He always finishes his work latest among his colleagues.

most delayed

A slightly formal way of expressing the highest level of lateness

Example

The flight was most delayed due to technical issues.

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 friend." Here, than is used to show that the arrival time of 'he' is later than the arrival time of his friend.

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. Submissions

  Her assignment was the tardiest among all the students.

  Her assignment was the tardiest among all the students.

• 3. Arrivals

  He is always the tardiest to arrive at school.

  He is always the tardiest to arrive at school.

• 4. Flights

  The flight was most delayed due to technical issues.

  The flight was most delayed due to technical issues.