ENGLISH
REFERENCE

safer

adj.
US //ˈseɪfɝ// UK //sˈeɪfɐ// safer
  1. 1 more protected (adj.)
    A2 Elementary

    more safe than something else; having less danger or risk.

    the comparative form of 'safe', denoting a state of increased security or reduced risk of harm.

    Example

    It is safer to cross the street at the traffic lights than in the middle of the road.

    Example

    The engineers argued that the new bridge design was significantly safer, as it could withstand much higher wind speeds than the previous model.

    Usage

    The comparative form of the adjective 'safe'.

    Teacher's tip

    Remind students that 'safer' is the standard comparative; 'more safe' is rare and usually only used for specific emphasis or stylistic reasons.
    • more secure
    • less risky
    Pitfall
    This car is more safer than my old one.
    This car is safer than my old one.

    Do not use 'more' with 'safer' because the '-er' ending already means 'more'.

Last updated June 20, 2026