The comparative of “quick” is “quicker” when used as an adjective and either “quicker” or “more quickly” when used as an adverb. While both are grammatically acceptable as comparative adverbs, “more quickly” is generally preferred in formal writing. “Quicker” as an adverb might be perceived as informal or even incorrect by some readers, despite its long history of usage.
Understanding “Quick” as an Adjective
As an adjective, “quick” describes something that is rapid or swift. Its comparative form, “quicker,” indicates a higher degree of quickness compared to something else.
Example:
- “A cheetah is quick, but a peregrine falcon is quicker.”
“Quickly” and its Comparative Forms: More Quickly vs. Quicker
“Quickly” is the adverbial form of “quick,” modifying verbs to describe how an action is performed. It has two comparative forms:
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More quickly: This is the standard and more formally accepted comparative form.
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Quicker: Although grammatically correct, using “quicker” as an adverb is often considered less formal.
Examples:
- “He walked quickly to the store, but she walked more quickly to catch the bus.” (Formal)
- “He walked quickly to the store, but she walked quicker to catch the bus.” (Informal)
Historical usage data shows that “quicker” was the more prevalent adverbial form until the 1970s, when “more quickly” overtook it in popularity. This shift suggests a change in perceived formality rather than a sudden grammatical shift.
The Case for “Quicker” as an Adverb
Despite the preference for “more quickly” in formal writing, “quicker” has a long history as a legitimate comparative adverb. Its usage predates the rise of “more quickly” by centuries. Some argue that “quicker” offers a more natural and concise flow in certain sentences.
Example:
- “The quicker you finish, the sooner you can go home.”
Choosing Between “More Quickly” and “Quicker”
While both are grammatically acceptable, the choice between “more quickly” and “quicker” depends on context and audience:
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Formal writing: Opt for “more quickly” to avoid potential criticism or misinterpretation.
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Informal writing or spoken language: “Quicker” is generally acceptable.
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Emphasis on flow and conciseness: “Quicker” might be preferred if it enhances the sentence’s rhythm and clarity.
Ultimately, clarity and effective communication should guide your choice. If using “quicker” improves the sentence without sacrificing clarity or appearing overly informal, it is a valid option.
Comparative Forms of Other Adverbs: A Comparison
The table below illustrates how comparative forms are formed for different adverbs, highlighting that not all adverbs follow the same pattern:
| Adverb | Comparative Form |
|---|---|
| quickly | more quickly AND quicker |
| rapidly | more rapidly |
| happily | more happily |
Note that “rapider” and “happier” as comparative adverbs are not considered standard English. This underscores the unique case of “quickly,” which allows for both forms.
