More pretty or prettier?

Prettier is a word.

For comparatives we add -IER after two syllable adjectives that end in Y.
Happy - happier
crazy - crazier
early - earlier
**** - sexier
Notice that these words have two syllables and end in Y. The Y disappears and we add -IER.

'Funner' is a word.

So is 'funnest'.

The inflected forms are listed in good dictionaries. The rules of thumb are good if you don't have a dictionary handy.

No, sorry. Funner and funnest are most definitely not words in the English language.

We don't want to mislead ESL students now do we?

Eh? Then my dictionary (Merriam-Webster) must be incorrect.


Main Entry: fun
Function: adjective
Inflected Form(s): sometimes fun·ner sometimes fun·nest
Date: circa 1846
1 : providing entertainment, amusement, or enjoyment
2 : full of fun


Yes, I know it says sometimes.

It should be pointed out for the benefit of those new to English, that there are a few minor differences between British English (sometimes called Standard English) and American English (sometimes called Standard American English). Mirriam-Webster is an American dictionary.

Thanks Mike. That's certainly true.

John C.:
I'm not trying to mislead ESL students. My point is that enough people consider "funner" and "funnest" words to have them appear in at least one dictionary. They may be American or informal or casual or low-class words, but they most certainly are words.

Personally, I wouldn't use them.

I agree Ryan, I wouldn't use them either. Unfortunately there is a lack of online British English dictionaries. Oxford has one (it's arguably the best there is) but one must subscribe (not free).

But is it incorrect to say "more pretty"?

Hi,

'Fun' is a noun, so you can say 'more fun/wisdom/pleasure'. If you want an adjective then form it from fun => funny. Then you can use comparative and superlative degrees full throttle: 'funnier, funniest'.