more sore

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "more sore" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing levels of soreness, typically in a physical context, such as after exercise or injury. Example: "After the intense workout yesterday, I feel even more sore today."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

Instead, I'm more tired and more sore.

Independent

But he said, "It's more sore than it was before".

The New York Times - Sports

He added: "My legs are much more sore".

The New York Times

He was more sore underneath, so we'll have to wait and see".

The New York Times - Sports

That's why running downhill makes you more sore the next day than running on flat ground).

The New York Times - Sports

His left knee might be more sore, he said, because of overcompensating.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

I looked at Hope and Michael and their pleated pants and suspenders and Ivy League sweatshirts, while my parents, overdressed, fallen aristocrats still holding on to their '70s-best, spiked with ever more sore-thumbish Kmart and JC Penney additions, totally fell short.

The New York Times

"I have no more sores on my skin and I don't have to leave school.

Unicef

It would make him look like more a sore loser".

The New York Times

Even the keenest gamers generally suffer nothing more than sore thumbs or tired eyes from their hobby.

Independent

Smith said his injury had improved, although he said his groin was "probably a little more than sore".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing levels of soreness over time, use "more sore" to clearly indicate an increase in discomfort, such as "After the second workout, my muscles were even "more sore" than before."

Common error

Avoid using "more sore" when a simpler comparative form like "sorer" is more appropriate and concise, especially in informal contexts. For example, instead of saying "My leg is "more sore" than my arm", use "My leg is sorer than my arm".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "more sore" functions as a comparative adjective phrase. It describes a state of increased soreness, comparing it to a previous condition or another body part. Ludwig's examples show it is used to describe physical discomfort or pain.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Science

17%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "more sore" is a common and grammatically sound way to express an increased level of soreness, as confirmed by Ludwig. It functions as a comparative adjective phrase, typically used to describe physical discomfort following exercise, injury, or medical procedures. While the simpler form "sorer" might be preferred in some contexts, "more sore" provides emphasis and clarity. The usage spans various registers, from informal conversations to news reports, making it a versatile expression for conveying physical pain and discomfort. Examples of Ludwig from reputable sources like the New York Times and BBC demonstrate its wide applicability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sorer

A shorter, more direct way to express a higher degree of soreness.

more painful

Focuses on the intensity of pain rather than just soreness.

in greater pain

A more formal way to express increased pain.

increasingly tender

Emphasizes the sensitivity to touch and discomfort.

more achy

Highlights the nature of the pain as an ache.

more sensitive

Indicates increased physical sensitivity.

more inflamed

Highlights inflammation as the cause of increased soreness.

more uncomfortable

Broader term encompassing general physical unease.

more agonizing

Emphasizes a higher level of suffering and pain.

more irritated

Suggests a state of aggravation and discomfort.

FAQs

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

You can use "more sore" to describe an increase in soreness compared to a previous state. For example, "After the hike, my knees were "more sore" than they had been after my usual walk."

What's a synonym for "more sore"?

A synonym for "more sore" is "more painful". It indicates a greater degree of discomfort or pain.

Is it correct to say "more sore" or "sorer"?

Both "more sore" and "sorer" are grammatically correct, but "sorer" is generally preferred for simplicity. However, "more sore" can be used for emphasis or when "sore" is part of a longer descriptive phrase.

When should I use "more sore" instead of "sorer"?

Use "more sore" when you want to emphasize the degree of soreness or when comparing two different instances. For example, "This time, I am "in greater pain" and "more sore" than I was last week."