more stiff

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "more stiff" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing the stiffness of two or more objects or materials, indicating that one is stiffer than the other. Example: "The new material is more stiff than the previous version, making it ideal for construction."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

If the stiffness of the left wall is different from that of the right wall, the drift of the wall with less stiffness will be greater than the one that is more stiff.

International Journal of Concrete Structures and Materials

The increased stiffness or confinement modulus of the confining FRP jackets, induced by the increase in jacket thickness or the use of the more stiff carbon FRP sheets, resulted in further amplification of the axial load resistance, stiffness and toughness of the jacketed columns.

International Journal of Concrete Structures and Materials

If they do not, expect rather more stiff medicine to come.

The Economist

This will only continue as competition gets more stiff and more services enter the fray.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"He's reaching out to her and she could not be more stiff and unresponsive," Ms. Colleary said.

The New York Times

Those traits, Republicans say, make Mr. Gore seem all the more stiff and mean-spirited by comparison.

The New York Times

"I've built a vegetable patch in my back garden; I'm actually more stiff now from gardening than I am from the cricket".

Independent

Just when she'd determined that land was within safe reach, she gave one more stiff kick, and her right foot struck rock.

The New Yorker

You just know that Mr. Gore, who has grown more stiff lately appearing with Mr. Clinton, left Monroe a nervous wreck.

The New York Times

At the same time, though, the 2003 Navigator is heavier and more stiff than the 1999 Navigator, factors which could have some offsetting effect.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

No more stiff-bristled assertions of alpha-male supremacy or lingering shots of Rossetti roaring at the ceiling with his britches around his ankles.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing the rigidity of materials or objects, use "more stiff" to clearly indicate that one has a higher resistance to bending or deformation than another. For example, "This alloy is "more stiff" than aluminum, making it ideal for structural components."

Common error

Avoid using "more stiff" in contexts where you mean "more formal" in a social setting. "Stiff" can describe both physical rigidity and social awkwardness, but using it interchangeably can lead to miscommunication. For social contexts, prefer alternatives like "more formal" or "more reserved".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "more stiff" functions primarily as a comparative adjective phrase, modifying nouns by indicating a higher degree of stiffness. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

40%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "more stiff" is a versatile and grammatically sound construction used to compare the degree of rigidity or inflexibility. As Ludwig AI confirms, it appears frequently in diverse contexts, notably in News & Media and Science, indicating its broad applicability. While "stiffer" is a direct alternative, "more stiff" provides emphasis. Remember to avoid using it to describe social behavior, opting for "more formal" instead. This guide highlights the phrase's proper usage, common errors, and provides semantically similar alternatives for enriched writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

stiffer

This is the comparative form of "stiff" and is the most direct synonym.

less flexible

This conveys the same meaning by describing the absence of flexibility.

more rigid

This alternative focuses on the unyielding nature of the subject.

more firm

This suggests a greater degree of solidity or resistance to bending.

more unyielding

This alternative emphasizes the inability to be moved or bent.

more inflexible

Similar to "less flexible", this directly states the lack of flexibility.

more taut

This alternative conveys a sense of tightness and tension.

more solid

This suggests greater density and resistance to deformation.

harder

A more general term indicating increased resistance to pressure or force.

more tense

This focuses on the state of being stretched or strained.

FAQs

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

You can use "more stiff" to compare the rigidity of two or more objects. For example: "The new material is "more stiff" than the old one", or "The board became "more stiff" after being left in the cold".

What is a good substitute for "more stiff"?

Depending on the context, you can use "stiffer", "less flexible", or "more rigid".

Is there a difference between "more stiff" and "stiffer"?

While both are grammatically correct, "stiffer" is the comparative form of "stiff" and often sounds more natural. "More stiff" is also acceptable and emphasizes the degree of difference.

When should I avoid using the phrase "more stiff"?

Avoid using "more stiff" in contexts where you mean to describe social behavior or formality. Instead, opt for phrases like "more formal" or "more reserved".