Learn how to use the comparative “less frequent” and superlative “least frequent” 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 “unfrequent”?

The comparative form of “unfrequent” is “less frequent”.

Example

Her visits to the doctor are less frequent than before.

Example

I have been receiving less frequent updates from him lately.

What is the superlative form of “unfrequent”?

The superlative form of “unfrequent” is “least frequent”.

Example

Among all the participants, she has the least frequent attendance.

Example

His emails have the least frequent response rate.

Why is this expression not used with most, more?

"Most" and "more" are not used with "unfrequent," "less frequent," and "least frequent." Instead, "less frequent" and "least frequent" are the appropriate comparatives and superlatives for "unfrequent." Using "most unfrequent" or "more unfrequent" would be grammatically incorrect.

Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?

"Unfrequent" does not have a regular comparative and superlative form. Instead, it uses the words "less frequent" for the comparative form and "least frequent" for the superlative form.

Expressions with similar meanings to “less frequent”

Used to describe something that happens or appears infrequently.

Example

It is a rare occurrence for him to be late.

Used to indicate that something does not happen often.

Example

We have infrequent meetings with our supervisor.

Used to describe something that happens from time to time.

Example

He makes occasional trips to the city for business.

Expressions with similar meanings to “least frequent”

Used to describe something that is the least abundant or available.

Example

Clean drinking water is scarcest in remote areas.

Used to indicate the lowest frequency or occurrence.

Example

The train service has the most infrequent schedule during weekends.

Using than with comparative “less frequent”

When using the comparative form "less frequent" to compare two things, you would use "than" to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "Her visits to the doctor are less frequent than before." Here, "than" is used to show that the frequency of her visits to the doctor now is lower than the frequency of her visits "before."

How can I use this expression in context?

“less frequent” and “least frequent” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.
  • 1Appointments

    My dentist appointments are less frequent now that my teeth are healthier.

    My dentist appointments are less frequent now that my teeth are healthier.

  • 2Updates

    I receive less frequent updates from the company since I left.

    I receive less frequent updates from the company since I left.

  • 3Attendance

    Among all the employees, he has the least frequent attendance.

    Among all the employees, he has the least frequent attendance.

  • 4Response rate

    Her emails have the least frequent response rate among the team.

    Her emails have the least frequent response rate among the team.

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