Comparing ‘Safer’ vs ‘More Safe’: Which Is Grammatically Correct?

When discussing safety, you may often find yourself questioning whether to use ‘safer’ or ‘more safe’. Is one grammatically correct, and if so, is there a preferred option? Let’s delve into the details to find out which form is the most accurate in standard English.

Comparative Adjectives and Their Forms

Adjectives are used to describe or modify nouns. The comparative form of an adjective allows us to compare two items or concepts. The comparative form is typically formed by adding ‘-er’ to the comparative adjective.

For example, with the adjective ‘safe’, the comparative form is ‘safer’. This is the correct way to compare the safety of two or more things. For instance, you would say:

"This car is safer than that one."

Contextual Usage and Native Speaker Preferences

While the comparative form ‘safer’ is generally the preferred option, it's worth noting that in some contexts, both ‘safer’ and ‘more safe’ can be correct.

One source mentioned that both forms can be correct but it depends on the context. A native speaker might prefer 'safer' in most cases, as it is more concise and commonly used.

"In general, either will work, but a native speaker would likely prefer 'safer'."

Usage Examples in Context

Here are a few examples to illustrate the usage of both forms:

Razors of type B are safer than those of type A. More safer ones are being used nowadays.

This is safe. This is safer. This is more safe than that. This is the safest.

More safe is grammatically correct, but options like 'safer' are also preferred. Never say 'more safer' as it sounds like a three-year-old.

Common Misconceptions and Troublesome Phrases

Many people mistakenly believe that ‘more safe’ is correct. However, this form is generally considered incorrect in standard English. Here are a few common phrases to avoid:

More safe or more safer — These forms are understandable but not used by literate people.

More safer — This phrase is particularly egregious and sounds like it is being used by a young child who is still learning the conventions of language.

Conclusion

In summary, the correct way to compare safety in English is to use the comparative form ‘safer’. While both ‘safer’ and ‘more safe’ can be used in certain contexts, ‘safer’ is generally preferred and more accurate in standard English. Avoid using ‘more safer’ as it is a hallmark of incorrect grammar and “sounding childish”. Knowing the correct usage of comparative adjectives can help you communicate clearly and avoid misunderstandings, making your writing or speech more polished and professional.