more firm

USAGE SUMMARY

"more firm" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe something that has become more solid or solidified, or to describe something that has been strengthened or made more secure. For example, "We need to create more firm regulations to protect the environment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Frankfurters have an elastic firmness, and on reheating prior to consumption become even more firm.

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations

We really need to be more firm on this.

Columbia University

It feels more firm," she said with some surprise.

The New York Times

As to this, a more firm basis for the simulation and design of stirred columns in hydrometallurgical application is established.

Hydrometallurgy

And with that heat, the greens are clearly becoming more firm.

The New York Times

Sixteen laps later, Knaus was a little more firm and told Johnson it was "go time".

The New York Times - Sports

"It sounds more firm, and the engine noise is softer," Mr. Gu said.

The New York Times

Next time around we need to take more measured steps, more firm steps.

The New York Times

If you like your eggs a little more firm, use a 9-inch skillet.

The Washington Post

"We ought to be a bit more firm" now, he said.

The New York Times

I think both sides — Europe and the United States — can adopt even more firm attitudes.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "more firm", consider the context to ensure it accurately conveys the intended meaning. For physical objects, it suggests increased solidity; for abstract concepts, it implies strengthened resolve or commitment. Verify that your word choice aligns with the specific aspect you want to emphasize.

Common error

While "more firm" is grammatically correct, it can sometimes sound less natural than the single-word comparative "firmer". Opt for "firmer" when brevity and directness are preferred, reserving "more firm" for instances where you want to emphasize the degree of change or the process of becoming firmer.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "more firm" functions primarily as a comparative adjective, modifying a noun to indicate an increase in firmness. Ludwig AI affirms its correctness and usability. For example, "The regulations need to be more firm" shows the regulations requiring greater strength.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

33%

Wiki

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Academia

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "more firm" is a grammatically correct and frequently used comparative adjective that indicates an increase in firmness, solidity, or resolve. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a valid and adaptable phrase that is generally neutral and useful across many contexts. Although often used in News & Media and Scientific domains, remember that you can sometimes achieve a more concise and direct expression by using the word "firmer".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

firmer

A more concise and direct synonym, suitable for most contexts where "more firm" is used.

more resolute

Emphasizes a strengthened determination or resolve, applicable in contexts of decision-making or commitment.

more steadfast

Highlights unwavering loyalty or commitment, suitable when discussing dedication to a principle or cause.

more solid

Focuses on physical firmness or stability, applicable when describing the physical properties of an object.

more stable

Indicates increased resistance to change or disruption, suitable when discussing systems or structures.

more hardened

Suggests a toughening or strengthening, often used in a metaphorical sense to describe emotional resilience.

more rigid

Implies inflexibility or strictness, applicable when describing rules or standards.

more unyielding

Conveys resistance to pressure or persuasion, suitable when describing a strong-willed person or entity.

more secured

Focuses on enhancing safety or protection, applicable when describing safeguarding measures.

more entrenched

Suggests a firmly established position or belief, difficult to dislodge or change.

FAQs

How can I use "more firm" in a sentence?

You can use "more firm" to describe something that has become more solid, resolute, or stable. For example, "The icing needs to be "more firm" before we add the next layer", or "We need to take a "more firm" stance on this issue".

What's the difference between "more firm" and "firmer"?

Both "more firm" and "firmer" are comparatives of "firm", but "firmer" is often more concise and direct. "More firm" can sometimes emphasize the process or degree of becoming firm, while "firmer" simply indicates a greater degree of firmness.

Which is correct: "more firm" or "firmer"?

Both "more firm" and "firmer" are grammatically correct, but "firmer" is often preferred for its simplicity. Choose the option that best fits the context and desired emphasis.

What can I say instead of "more firm" to describe a decision?

When describing a decision, you could use alternatives like "more resolute", "more steadfast", or "more determined" to convey a stronger commitment or resolve.