# rarer

/ˈɹɛɹɝ/ (US) · /ɹˈeəɹɐ/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/rarer
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

not happening or found very often. It is the comparative form of 'rare', used to compare two things that are both hard to find.

For teachers: the comparative form of 'rare'; occurring or found less frequently than another thing. Typically describes objects, events, or conditions that are uncommon or unusual.

## Examples

- This blue diamond is even rarer than the white one.
- While seeing a fox in the garden is unusual, seeing a badger is much rarer in this part of the country.
- The collector explained that while the first edition is difficult to source, the signed version is significantly rarer and commands a much higher price at auction.

## Pitfalls

- Not "more rarer" but "rarer" — Rarer is already a comparative form; adding 'more' creates a double comparative error.

## Usage notes

- Comparative adjective — typically followed by 'than' when comparing two specific items.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.