oftener
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Adverb: A comparative form meaning "more often" or "more frequently." It is used to compare the frequency of two actions or events.
Usage
- Use "oftener" to indicate that one action happens with greater frequency than another.
- It is a standard, though less common, comparative form of the adverb "often." The more frequently used comparative is "more often."
- It is typically used in formal or literary contexts.
Examples
- "With the new schedule, I find myself visiting the library oftener than before."
- "He checks his phone oftener than he checks his watch."
- "As we grow older, we appreciate these moments oftener."
Advanced Usage
- "None the oftener": An archaic or literary phrase meaning "not any more frequently."
- He called, but she answered none the oftener. (He called more, but she did not answer more frequently.)
Variants and Related Words
- Often (adv.): Frequently, many times.
- More often (adv. phrase): The more common comparative form of "often."
- Oftentimes (adv.): On many occasions; frequently. (A synonym, not a comparative form.)
- Frequent (adj.): Occurring or done on many occasions.
Synonyms
- More frequently
- More regularly
- More commonly
Notes on Usage
- While grammatically correct, "oftener" is considered somewhat old-fashioned or formal in modern English. In most everyday speech and writing, "more often" is preferred.
- The superlative form is "oftenest," meaning "most often," but it is even rarer in contemporary usage than "oftener."
Adverb
- more often or more frequently